The Sacrament of Reconciliation

The Reconciliation of a Penitent, or Confession, or Penance, is the sacramental rite in which those who repent may confess their sins to God in the presence of a priest and receive the comfort of pardon and the grace of absolution.

Confession is always available at Saint Andrew's by appointment to all who desire it. Contact Fr. Peter Helman to schedule a time to meet (rector@standrewsbham.org).

Forgiveness and reconciliation have a crucial place in the Christian life. We return to God in penitence constantly. An honest spiritual life will lead us to know how our actions, thoughts, and dispositions bring us closer to or carry us away from God. Regular self-examination and repentance are essential parts of a healthy spiritual life. We do not have to carry out this work in isolation. The Sacrament of Reconciliation provides a specific setting for self-examination, the help of another's insight, and the sure and certain sign of inward and spiritual grace—the words of absolution spoken by a priest.

The Sacrament of Reconciliation asks us to take the results of our self-examination to another human being—a priest. There wer find absolution—the sure and certain word of forgiveness that restores our relationship with God. Some people find a regular pattern of confession to be helpful; others seek it out at turning points in the year or in their life. There are times when the conscience is so troubled or our awareness so confused that a sacramental confession is all but necessary for spiritual health and growth. 

Remember that the seal of the confessional is absolute. The priest cannot disclose what you bring to confession in any way and will not refer to it in conversation with you afterward.

(From Saint Augustine's Prayer Book: A Book of Devotions, Forward Movement, 2014, pp.101-102)