Preparing to celebrate the Sacrament of Reconciliation (also known as Penance) is a time for focus on God’s mercy, how we show mercy among our family, friends, and community, and how we celebrate forgiveness. Children of the parish who are in 2nd grade or up are invited to begin the formal preparation to celebrate the Sacrament of Reconciliation. In order to register for this preparation, the child should meet the guidelines listed in the checklist below.
 
Preparation for Reconciliation is set up for parents and children to prepare mostly at home since it is the home where each child's faith is most cultivated. The materials the parish provides will guide families through familiar Bible stories, offer discussion points, and suggest activities for you and your child while on this journey. In order to support parents during this time, the parish offers two meetings for both parents and children.
 
Of vital importance to a child’s preparation is the family’s participation at Mass on a weekly basis. The Mass is a revelation and the greatest expression of the Catholic faith. It is here that the preparation for this Sacrament comes alive. It is where as a community we offer as a sacrifice our successes and failures and where God accepts them with great joy guiding us to a deeper relationship with Him.
 
Checklist to begin preparation:

• Child must be in 2nd grade or up.
• Child should have regularly attended Faith Formation classes the year prior to preparation and be attending regularly the year they prepare for this sacrament.
• If a child was not baptized or baptized in another faith tradition, the parents must contact the Parish office before the start of preparation.

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