Sin wounds our relationship with God, with ourselves, and with others. In his great love, God calls us to reconcile with him, to experience a conversion of heart that moves us to feel contrition for the thoughts, behaviors, and the inaction that harm ourselves and our relationships with him and others. In the sacrament of reconciliation, we are invited to experience God’s love and mercy. Designed specifically for children who will celebrate the sacrament for the first time, Preparing for Confession for Children: Receiving God’s Mercy will help young people get ready to confess their sins. Scripture passages will help children reflect on God’s mercy. They will be guided to examine their conscience, to think about what to confess, and to pray before and after the sacrament. A downloadable pdf is also available to parents who want additional support and catechesis about the sacrament. The booklet, appropriately sized for small hands, can be brought to confession and is ideal for children in Catholic schools and religious education programs.
