In this sacrament, we are renewed and recommitted to being open to the action of the Spirit in our lives. We also can better reflect Christ and his words of life and love to others. We also strengthen Christ’s Body on earth–his community–that in turn can continue the healing, saving, loving work of Jesus.

After his resurrection, Jesus passed on his mission to forgive sins to his ministers, telling them, “As the Father has sent me, even so I send you… 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 20:21-23).

Reconciliation at St. Vincent’s

The Sacrament of Reconciliation is celebrated every Saturday from 4-4:45 p.m., and 30 minutes before each daily Mass in the Daily Chapel, located in the southeast corner of the Gathering Space. Penance services also are held during Advent and Lent. This sacrament is available anytime by appointment. Please contact Father Ken VanHaverbeke.

First Holy Communion & First Reconciliation for Children

St. Vincent’s offers classes for parents of children in the 2nd and 3rd grades every year; sign-ups begin in August. Nine sessions help parents prepare their children, with most scheduled on Wednesday evenings.

The evening begins with food and an opening presentation, which includes a question for parents to discuss with their child. Then, the children leave for their own 30-minute session while parents experience a presentation geared for them. The last portion of the evening consists of a ritual prayer together, then parents receive follow-up activities for more discussions at home.

Adults and youth (4th grade and older) are invited to explore a faith formation program that guides them toward celebrating this sacrament. Click here to learn more about Becoming Catholic/RCIA.