As we prepare for the coming of Christ at Christmas we want to be ready to accept his love and be able to do whatever he asks of us. In order to do so, the Church encourages the parish community to come together to hear the Word of God, to pray and to sing in a formal liturgy called the Rite of Penance (Penance Service). Gathered together we  recognize our individual sinfulness and the harm it does to the whole community, and so, pray for one another as well as for ourselves. With song, prayer and scripture we ready ourselves for the opportunity for private confession and absolution. Our service is Wednesday, December 14th at 7:30 p.m. in the church.

Here’s what to expect:
Order of the Rite of Penance
Gathering Song
Opening Prayer
Scripture Reading
Responsorial Psalm
Gospel Reading
Homily
Examination of Conscience
Act of Contrition
Individual Confession and Absolution

To prepare yourself for the service:
Prayer of Abandonment

I abandon myself into your hands;
do with me what you will.
Whatever you may do, I thank you.
I am ready for all, I accept all.
Let only your will be done in me,
and in all your creatures . . .
I wish no more than this, O Lord.
Into your hands I commend my soul.
I offer it to you with all the love of my heart,
for I love you, Lord,
and so need to give myself,
to surrender myself into your hands,
without reserve and with boundless confidence.
For you are my God. Amen.