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• Catholics who have attained the use of reason have a right to the Sacrament of Penance unless prevented by law. One who completes his/her seventh year is presumed to have the use of reason (Canon #97.2) and with all the faithful who have reached the age of discretion are bound faithfully to confess their graves sins at least once a year (Canon #989).
   
  Parish faith formation programs provide education for a child's First Reconciliation in the second grade. This includes instruction on the meaning and manner of celebrating the Rite of Penance. Parishes shall provide preparation meeting(s) for all parent(s) and/or guardians who have a child preparing for First Reconciliation.
  
  
  Primary Actions of Reconciliation
  There are four (4) primary actions in the celebration of the Sacrament of Reconciliation (also called Confession). Each action contributes in some way to the healing that takes place: confession of sins; expression of contrition or sorrow for sin; doing penance ("satisfaction"), which expresses a desire to avoid sin; and absolution from sin. 

• Reconciliation Resource Documents

  • Reconciliation Guide