Frequently Asked Questions
Can I receive Communion without going to Confession?
When you receive the Eucharist, you affirm that you are in a state of grace, reconciled with God and with the Church. If you are in a state of mortal sin, you aren’t in a state of grace, s0 you must abstain from receiving the Eucharist until after you go to Confession. A mortal sin consists of a serious action through which a person turns away from God’s law and charity, fully understands it is wrong and chooses to commit it freely.
If you have committed venial sins, you may still receive the Eucharist at Mass. Venial sins are those that wound our relationship with God, but consist of less serious matters than mortal sins or are performed without full knowledge or consent. Penitents are encouraged to confess venial sins regularly, however, since the repetition of these sins often lead to more serious sin.
Which is it: Confession, Penance or Reconciliation?
Any of these is fine. The Rite itself uses the words Penance and Reconciliation. The Catechism of the Catholic Church notes the sacrament is known by many names:
“…the sacrament of conversion because it makes sacramentally present Jesus’ call to conversion, the first step in returning to the Father from whom one has strayed by sin.”
“…the sacrament of Penance, since it consecrates the Christian sinner’s personal and ecclesial steps of conversion, penance, and satisfaction.”
“…the sacrament of confession, since the disclosure or confession of sins to a priest is an essential element of this sacrament. In a profound sense it is also a ‘confession’ —acknowledgment and praise— of the holiness of God and of his mercy toward sinful man.”
“…the sacrament of forgiveness, since by the priest’s sacramental absolution God grants the penitent ‘pardon and peace.’”
“…the sacrament of Reconciliation, because it imparts to the sinner the love of God who reconciles: ‘Be reconciled to God.’ He who lives by God’s merciful love is ready to respond to the Lord’s call: ‘Go; first be reconciled to your brother.’” (Catechism 1423-1424)
How can those with special needs access Confession
during The Light is On?
Find ASL Confession Times and Stations of the Cross in ASL here.
Join The Light is ON for Everyone Webinar discussing accessing the Sacrament of Reconciliation for Children and Adults with Special Needs on Tuesday, March 13th from 10:00-11:30am. Learn more here.
I’m divorced. May I receive the sacrament?
If you are civilly divorced and have not remarried or were validly married after receiving a declaration of nullity for your prior marriage, you may participate in the Sacrament. If you have remarried outside of the Church or have questions about your situation, we encourage you to speak with your parish priest.
Another excellent resource is a brochure published by Our Sunday Visitor, called “What the Church Teaches: Annulments,” available in the literature racks of many churches.
What about abortion? My wounds are deep. Will God forgive me?
No sin is bigger than God’s mercy. If you have been involved in abortion in any way, we invite you to come home.
Nothing can separate you from the love of God in Christ Jesus (Rom. 8:29).
Take the first step and contact us today. Our trained staff is ready to help you begin your journey with information on the healing process as well as referral to a priest sensitive to your needs. This Lent, make peace with your past.
What about the rest of the Year? How do I find Confession Times?
throughout the year and you are encouraged to go monthly.