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 First 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 3 and above (please note this recent change to Year 3). 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 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 reflection afternoon.

2021/2022 Sacramental Programs

There will be no First Reconciliation Program for Year 2 children in 2021. Instead the program will be run in Term 1, 2022 for Year 3 children and above.

Please refer back this page in January 2022 for further information.

For any concerns please contact Suzanne Miceli at sacraments.hic@gmail.com

First Reconciliation for Adults

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