Reconciliation

Through the sacraments of Christian initiation, man receives the new life of Christ. How we carry this life "in earthen vessels," and it remains "hidden with Christ in God." We are still in our "earthly tent," subject to suffering, illness, and death. This new life as a child of God can be weakened and even lost by sin. The Lord Jesus Christ, physician of our souls and bodies, who forgave the sins of the paralytic and restored him to bodily health, has willed that his Church continue, in the power of the Holy Spirit, his work of healing and salvation, even among her own members. This is the purpose of the two sacraments of healing: the sacrament of Penance and the sacrament of Anointing of the Sick.

-Catechism of the Catholic Church

Reconciliation

The Sacrament of Reconciliation, also known as Confession or Penance, is a sacrament of healing, and encounter with the Christ. The sacrament is necessary to our growth, healing and strength as Christians and disciples of the Lord. The celebration of the Sacrament for the general community is available every Saturday beginning at 4:00PM. In addition we celebrate two communal Penance Services each year, one during the Advent Season, the other during Lent. Anyone wishing to celebrate the Sacrament of Reconciliation at a time other than the scheduled Saturday afternoon is invited to call the Rectory office (603-888-0321) to set up a time convenient to your own and the priest's schedules.

First Reconciliation

 The first experience of the Sacrament is celebrated here at Immaculate Conception during the Second Grade year, as part of the preparation process for First Eucharist. Children in both Catholic and public schools are prepared for the celebration of the sacrament here in the parish. Our program is a family-centered catechesis. Materials are provided to families to assist them in a family based experience of preparing to receive that gift of God's grace. In addition to the family portion of the preparation, each year students participate in a mini-retreat before receiving the sacrament.

More information about the Reconciliation Program is available by contacting the Religious Education Office at 603-888-0608, or by contacting our Religious Education Director.