The Sacrament of Reconciliation is a sacrament of healing because it reconciles us with God through his merciful love and forgiveness of our sin. You may see the priest face-to-face or speak through a screen. You may receive the sacrament in church at scheduled times or by appointment with a priest either in church or in the priest’s office.
Any baptized Catholic may receive this sacrament. There is no limit to the number of times we can be forgiven for our sins. Catholics are encouraged to receive this sacrament at least once a year between the start of Lent and Pentecost.
Catholics who have committed serious sin are not to receive the Eucharist until their serious sin has been forgiven in the sacrament of Reconciliation.
Whose sins you forgive are forgiven them, and whose sins you retain are retained. ( John 20:23)
Preparation before Reconciliation
Rite of Reconciliation
Act of contrition
My God, I am sorry for my sins with all my heart.
In choosing to do wrong and failing to do good,
I have sinned against you whom I should love above all things.
I firmly intend, with your help, to do penance, to sin no more,
and to avoid whatever leads me to sin.
Our Savior Jesus Christ suffered and died for us.
In his name, my God, have mercy.
If you are ill or not ready to have a in-person encounter, Pope Francis stated that you can still go to God directly, be specific about your sins, request pardon and experience God's loving forgiveness. Read more here.