On the evening of that day, the first day of the week, Jesus showed himself to the apostles. He breathed on them and said to them: “Receive the Holy Spirit. If you forgive the sins of any, they are forgiven: if you retain the sins of any, they are retained.” (Jn 20:19,22-23)

The forgiveness of sins committed after Baptism is conferred by a particular sacrament called the sacrament of conversion, confession, penance or reconciliation. It is also known as one of the Sacraments of Healing, the other being the sacrament of Anointing of the Sick.

Weekly Reconciliation

Weekly Reconciliation occurs Saturday 4.30pm to 4.55pm.

For any other times, please contact the parish office.

The Sacrament of First Reconciliation

In accordance with Canon law 914, “children who have reached the use of reason are to have made sacramental confession before the sacrament of First Holy Communion. Therefore, catechesis on Reconciliation must precede the catechesis for Holy Communion.” (Preparing Children for the Sacraments of Reconciliation, First Holy Communion and Confirmation, Catholic Archdiocese of Sydney, 2011 pg 15) As such, the Holy Innocents’ Parish based program is available to children in Year 2 and above. Baptism is a prerequisite for Reconciliation.

The Parish Based Sacramental Program at Holy Innocents’

Children from a variety of schools come together to learn and celebrate as a united Parish community. We follow the Sydney Archdiocese preparation program. Children and at least one parent must attend three group preparation sessions. In these sessions, the children, with the support of their parents will be given thorough catechesis on the meaning of sacrament. Content is reinforced by the teachers and catechists in our schools. The children must also attend a commitment Mass and a retreat afternoon.

COVID-19 UPDATE

Sydney Archdiocese has advised us that all First Reconciliations have been postponed indefinitely due to social distancing requirements. All preparations, including the upcoming parent meeting, have been cancelled until further notice.

We will update this page with more information as it becomes available. Please check back at the end of July for potential updates.

First Reconciliation for Adults

Adults, who wish to receive this sacrament, please contact the parish office for details.