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.
In the Diocese of Rochester, First Penance is typically celebrated when a child is in second grade. The First Penance program is done in conjunction with the First Communion program.
If you are an adult seeking Penance for the first time, please see our OCIA page. If it is not your first time, you can see your parish website or bulletin for times. If it is an emergency, please contact your priest.
Interested in First Penance for your child?
