Dear Parishioners,
I usually write on Friday, but I'm writing early to let you know the confession schedule and how to go to confession.
Confession Schedule
We're keeping the usual schedule during Advent:
Monday: 2 to 4 PM and 6 to 7 PM
Friday: during the 3 PM holy hour
Saturday: 3 to 3:45 PM
Since the First Friday of the month is really popular, I asked Fr. Andrew to join me this Friday, December 2nd, during the 3 PM holy hour. He will be in the sacristy while I'll be in the confessional.
Making a Good Confession
Above is a video by Fr. Mike Schmitz on how to make a good confession. It's the first video by Fr. Mike I've watched. I was impressed. It's inspirational and helpful regarding how to go to confession as an adult. You might consider watching his Bible podcast and his upcoming Catechism podcast.
Fr. Mike recommends using an Examination of Conscience tailored to your age and state in life. See a variety at the
USCCB here. You can find others by doing an Internet search for "Examination of Conscience". An interesting one based on the seven deadly sins is at
Spiritual Direction here. If you're looking for something familiar, try the one at the
National Catholic Register here.
Fr. Mike also recommends praying the Litany of Humility by Rafael Cardinal Merry del Val y Zulueta. It's at
EWTN here.
Fr. Mike suggests the Ignatian Consciousness Examen or Daily Examen. You can read about it at
The Daily Examen. I'm reading a thorough article by one of my professors in the seminary, Fr. George Aschenbrenner, SJ, entitled
Consciousness Examen.
Our Country
Making a good confession will help us deal with what's going on in our country. For a general strategy, I recommend
When Elections Don't Go Our Way by Brianna Heldt. Basically, live a good Catholic life.
Intercessions
Another way to make our country better is to pray for one another's intentions. Here are a few to get us started. You can add your own by clicking on Reply in this message.
1) For many people to make good confessions and be fully reconciled with God.
2) For a true understanding of God's divine plan for human love in our society.
3) For all of us to better prepare for the coming of Christ during Advent.
4) For healing for all those in recent car accidents.
5) For healing for everyone experiencing illness.
God love you,
Fr. Jim