Advent Penance Service Monday, December 14 at 7:00pm 

Advent suggests putting whatever prevents a communion with Jesus Christ behind us and allow him to enter our lives in new ways. So Advent is characterized by the virtue of hope. It looks to the future in the same way the Sacrament of Reconciliation puts sin behind us and renews our zeal for virtue. Advent and the Sacrament of Reconciliation cause us to ask, “What conversion is Christ inviting from me?” and “How is Jesus calling forth deeper virtue in me?” 

Jesus’ forgiveness of sin was always for the purpose of strengthening the communion between the sinner and Almighty God, through Jesus Christ. His ministry of forgiveness continues today in the Sacrament of Reconciliation. In confession, the priest acts “in persona Christi”, ensuring the continuation of Christ’s ministry entrusted to the apostles. 

The Sacrament of Reconciliation is a personal encounter with awesome mercy of Jesus Christ and an opportunity to continue our conversion and to deepen our communion with him. 

I invite you take advantage of the Penance Service on Monday evening. Don’t worry if it’s been a long time since your last confession, or think your sins are too serious, or don’t know the process. It will be the highlight of the priest’s day to be the instrument of the Lord’s forgiveness for you. There will be a guide in the Penance Service program. Priests from surrounding parishes will be hearing confessions. 

Don’t pass up this opportunity to become more ready than ever to receive Jesus Christ at Christmas and into your daily life in the year ahead. 

Your pastor and brother in Christ, 

Monsignor Gerry Reinersman