Dear Friends,

On this Third Sunday of Lent, we remember and appreciate the great gift of Jesus Christ: the Sacrament of Confession. Time and again I hear people say, "going to confession is very scary or difficult." I grant this is difficult, and we should be scared as we have offended God. As we accuse ourselves of our sins and bad habits, we know the shame that comes from having hurt God or others. But, the Sacrament is also an opportunity to increase our joy and hope that God will forgive us our sins and with purified hearts see with greater clarity the bright promise of eternal life. We all sin and fall short of the glory of God. So, in humility we approach the confessional with a sorrowful heart and conscience needing correction.

When we come to the mercy box, our sorrow is turned into joy and our consciences are refreshed. Don't be intimidated or afraid. Both of these are sides of the arrogance card. There is no darkness, evil, trial, doubt, or pain that can't be released or overcome. God's love, mercy, and grace are freely offered. In humility we acknowledge our Creator and bow before him with our burdens and arise from our ashes, ready for the new challenges of a sanctified and holy soul.

People ask how often they should go to confession. My answer is always the same: once a month, but at least during Advent and Lent. If you have mortal sin in your soul, it must be confessed before you next go to Holy Communion. Unconfessed mortal sin and reception of Communion is a sacrilege; a grave and serious offense against God. Confession isn’t about fear; it's about love - our love for God and a deep and abiding desire never to rest comfortably in having offended Him or another. We go to confession to say we’re sorry, to try and not repeat it again, and amend our offense.

May this Lent be a time of genuine renewal and conversion. Humble yourself before God. Go to Confession and take your family and friends with you! 

Yours in Christ,

M. Heinz

Pastor