First Penance

Forgiveness: 
A Joyful Truth The Sacrament of Penance rests on a fundamental truth of our Christian faith: that in Christ all men and women are set in relationship as brothers and sisters to each other. This is a joyous truth, as indeed the sacrament is a joyous event.

It is always about what God has done for us in Christ, and only secondarily about human sinfulness. It must, of course, bring us into contact with the sinful side of our lives. Conversion from sinful ways is never easy. But the thrust of the sacrament is on the positive fact of forgiveness through Jesus, not on the negative reality of sin. Forgiveness is its primary aim. The Sacrament of Penance welcomes us into the Church's joyous faith that in Christ all sin is overcome.

Readiness and Registration: 
Before beginning the immediate preparation for the sacrament of reconciliation, the child needs an understanding of some basic concepts of Church teaching as well as some familiarity with prayer and Catholic practices.  The child is required to be enrolled in the religious education program for two years. 

Family Involvement: 
The lessons being taught in the religious education classes need to be reinforced at home during the week.  This will enable families to participate in the child's preparation for the Sacrament of Penance.

Renewal with Parents: 
During the preparation time for the celebration of the Sacrament, the children have a two hour session of craft, music, and prayer activities with their parents.

Celebration: 
The children celebrate the Sacrament of Penance with their families within a Communal Penance Service.  

Schedules/Calendar
Children have their immediate preparation for Penance during the second year. Those attending Catholic School are prepared at school and receive Penance and Reconciliation at Corpus Christi.  Click the link below to read more about classes, parent meetings and celebration rehearsals.