This resource is intended to offer some suggestions to parishes and Christian communities to
prepare for the 24-hours for the Lord initiative. Obviously, these are suggestions that can be
adapted according to local needs and customs.
On Friday evening March 12th and during the entire day of Saturday March 13th, it would be
good to have the church open, offering the opportunity for Confessions, preferably in the context of
guided Eucharistic Adoration. The event could begin on Friday evening with a Liturgy of the Word
to prepare the faithful for Confession, and conclude with the celebration of Mass on Saturday
afternoon.
Where, for health reasons, the celebrations of the Sacraments are not allowed, or can be held
with a limited number of people, Eucharistic Adoration could be transmitted online, thus
preparing the faithful for perfect contrition, as the Catechism of the Catholic Church says:
“When it arises from a love by which God is loved above all else, contrition is called «perfect»
(contrition of charity). Such contrition remits venial sins; it also obtains forgiveness of mortal
sins if it includes the firm resolution to have recourse to sacramental confession as soon as
possible” (CCC 1452).
The first part of this resource offers some thoughts to help reflect on the reason for the Sacrament
of Reconciliation. The texts help prepare the faithful to meet the priest at the time of individual
confession in a conscious way. They can also be used to prepare (alone or with the guidance of a
minister) for the aforementioned perfect contrition, in the event that it is temporarily not possible
to receive the Sacrament of Reconciliation. They may also help overcome any resistance that often
blocks one from going to confession. A testimony is given that recounts a personal conversion: this
helps to reflect on one’s own change and on the awareness of the presence of God in one’s life. A
person’s life is also presented, which can inspire us to do works of mercy and to continue to grow
personally after having received absolution from our sins.
The second part can be used when the Church is open, so that those who go to confession can be
helped in prayer and meditation through readings based on the Word of God.
This Resource could be useful in preparing a catechesis on the need for conversion and on the
Sacrament of Reconciliation. Mostly young people, but also adults, ask themselves: why should I go
to confession? How do I confess? What do I do after confession? The resource can be a valuable
aid in finding the answers.