Our Lady Star of the Sea | St Bernard of Clairvaux | St Saviour
Sacrament of Confession
On the evening of that day, the first day of the week, Jesus showed himself to his apostles. He breathed on them, and said to them: ‘Receive the Holy Spirit. If you forgive the sins of any, they are forgiven; if you retain the sins of any, they are retained’ (John 20:19, 22-23).
The Sacrament of Forgiveness, also known as the Sacrament of Reconciliation or Confession, is a sacrament in which Catholics confess their sins to a priest and receive absolution. This sacrament is first received before one makes their First Holy Communion, and continues throughout one’s life.
According to the Church's command, ‘after having attained the age of discretion, each of the faithful is bound by an obligation faithfully to confess serious sins at least once a year.’ Anyone who is aware of having committed a mortal sin must not receive Holy Communion, even if they experience deep contrition, without having first received sacramental absolution, unless there is a grave reason for receiving Communion and no possibility of going to confession. Children must go to the sacrament of Penance before receiving Holy Communion for the first time. (CCC 1457)
The process involves examining one’s conscience, confessing sins to a priest, performing an act of contrition, receiving penance (a task or prayers to perform as a sign of repentance), and receiving absolution, which forgives the sins. This sacrament emphasises God’s mercy and the importance of seeking forgiveness.
‘Individual, integral confession and absolution remain the only ordinary way for the faithful to reconcile themselves with God and the Church, unless physical or moral impossibility excuses from this kind of confession. There are profound reasons for this. Christ is at work in each of the sacraments. He personally addresses every sinner: “My son, your sins are forgiven.” He is the physician tending each one of the sick who need him to cure them. He raises them up and reintegrates them into fraternal communion. Personal confession is thus the form most expressive of reconciliation with God and with the Church.’ (CCC 1484)
Examination of Conscience
For Adults
A comprehensive guide for adults to reflect on their relationship with God and others, preparing for the grace of forgiveness.
For Children
Gentle reflection questions for our younger parishioners, helping them understand God’s love and the beauty of Reconciliation.
For Youth
Resources focused on the challenges of modern life, offering teenagers a way to reconnect with their faith through self-reflection.
Sacramental Schedule
Confession Times in Our Parish
Confession times in our parish are:
• Saturday: 11.00 am–12 noon and 4.00 pm–4.50 pm
• Sunday: 10.00 am–10.45 am
You can also request confession by approaching the clergy after Mass or by contacting the parish office.
Guide to Confession
1. Examination of Conscience: Before entering the confessional, spend time in quiet prayer reflecting on your life and seeking the help of the Holy Spirit.
2. Introductory Rites: Enter the confessional and make the Sign of the Cross. Say: "Bless me, Father, for I have sinned. It has been [time] since my last confession."
3. Confession of Sins: Honestly confess your sins to the priest. When finished, you can say: "For these and all my sins, I am truly sorry."
4. Accepting Penance: The priest will suggest a penance. This is meant to help you grow in your faith and make reparation for your sins.
5. Act of Contrition and Absolution: Pray the Act of Contrition. The priest will then offer the prayer of absolution, to which you respond: "Amen."