Go to Confession this Advent!
As we prepare for the Advent Season, it’s an apt time to consider going to Confession. Here are some tips!
When is Confession?
At St. Mary’s we have Confessions on Saturdays at 4 PM and Sundays between the Masses (8:45 AM). Father Will will also hear your confession pretty much anytime you ask!
Here are the Penance Services in our Deanery this Advent (2025)
Overview of Confession
This video provides an excellent overview of the whole process of preparing for and going to confession.
What to do in Confession?
- Say “Bless me, Father, for I have sinned. It has been [this long] since my last Confession.” It’s helpful also to let the Priest know your state in life (age, marital status) if you are going behind the screen.
- Confess your sins. The priest is there to help you and may ask some questions to guide you through the sacrament.
- Listen to the counsel and penance the priest gives. Tell him if you do not understand or cannot complete the penance.
- Pray an act of contrition. If the priest does not ask you to do so, pray it outside. You can find examples below.
- Receive absolution. The priest blesses you as he says the prayer of absolution, which frees you from your sins.
- Complete your penance. If you cannot do the penance right away, do so as soon as possible.
How to Prepare for Confession
To make a good confession, you will want to make a good examination of conscience. Here is a guided one:
Here are some other Examinations of Conscience:
