It's the only Sacrament that has three names! The first name is Penance which was the means to receive forgiveness in the first four centuries of the Church. Penitents were instructed to perform their penance as the first action of the sacrament and then make the confession to receive absolution.
From the 5th century through the 20th century the main word used was Confession where penance was given to the penitent.
At the conclusion of the Vatican Council in 1966 the approach to the sacrament was defined to stress community and personal understanding and peace. Appropriately the word Reconciliation was assigned to the forgiveness of sins.
No matter what word is used for this sacrament, it always involves confession of sins, penance given and reconciliation for the penitent.
During Lent Fr. Mel and I have been involved in Penance services on 7 different parishes in the North County. We have also conducted 7 Penance services right here at St. Michael's and heard many confessions on Saturdays and private appointments. It has been inspiring and a great privilege.
On the Monday of Holy Week, April 14th, there will be a dozen priests here for our Parish Penance Service. Come to the Church at 7:00 PM to receive the grace of God at this celebration. You will experience Easter joy in God's gift of forgiveness. Come and see!
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