The Sacrament of Reconciliation (also known as Confession and Penance) gives grace and healing to our souls which we wound with our sins. Through the Sacrament of Reconciliation, we receive pardon for our sins and are strengthened against temptation. We are also challenged to offer to others the same radical forgiveness and mercy that we receive from God. Jesus entrusted the ministry of Reconciliation to the Church as a gift of mercy. In confession we have the opportunity to repent and recover the grace of friendship with God. It is a holy moment in which we place ourselves in his presence and honestly acknowledge our sins, especially mortal sins. With absolution, we are reconciled to God and the Church.
The Most Holy Eucharist is the source and summit of our faith. The term “Eucharist” originates from the Greek word eucharistia, meaning thanksgiving. At Mass, bread and wine become the Body and Blood of Jesus Christ . The whole Christ is truly present -- Body, Blood, Soul, and Divinity -- under the appearances of bread and wine, the glorified Christ who rose from the dead. This is what the Church means when she speaks of the "Real Presence" of Christ in the Eucharist. Jesus gives Himself to us in the gift of Holy Communion.
In the Diocese of Rochester, First Penance and First Communion are typically celebrated when a child is in second grade.
Click here to register your children for our First Penance and First Holy Communion program:
If you are an adult seeking to receive Holy Communion for the first time, please see our OCIA page. If you are homebound and wish to receive the Eucharist, please contact your parish office.