WILMINGTON, DE — In an initiative to make the Sacrament of Reconciliation more accessible for Catholics, the Diocese of Wilmington is hosting its third annual ‘Reconciliation Monday.’ The event will take place on Monday, March 25, 2024, from 3:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at all 56 parish churches scattered across Delaware and Maryland’s Eastern Shore.
‘Reconciliation Monday’ has been strategically timed towards the end of Lent and the beginning of Holy Week, in anticipation of the Easter celebration. The Most Reverend William E. Koenig, Bishop of Wilmington, emphasized the event’s popularity among parishioners and priests. He warmly invites all Catholics, regardless of how long it’s been since their last confession, to participate.
“Many of God’s people who had fallen away from their faith used this opportunity to participate in the Sacrament of Reconciliation and return to Mass at Easter,” said Bishop Koenig. “We invite all Catholics – whether it has been months, years, or decades since their last Confession – to take advantage of this diocesan-wide event in which all of our priests will participate.”
Although all parishes regularly offer the Sacrament of Reconciliation and many host penance services during Lent, ‘Reconciliation Monday’ provides a synchronized opportunity for confession across the diocese. However, due to a limited number of priests, not every mission church in the diocese can hold confessions. Parishioners are advised to verify the availability of services at their local parish or via the diocese’s website.
The United States Catholic Catechism for Adults states that Jesus entrusted the ministry of reconciliation to the Church. The Sacrament of Penance, also known as Reconciliation or Confession, is seen as God’s gift to humanity for the forgiveness of sins committed after Baptism. It offers a chance for repentance and reconnection with God, presenting a holy moment for individuals to open themselves up to God’s presence and sincerely acknowledge their sins.
‘Reconciliation Monday’ signifies an opportunity for absolution, fostering reconciliation with God and the Church. It is a testament to the Catholic Diocese of Wilmington’s commitment to serving its diverse community of over 240,000 Catholics across Delaware and the nine counties of Maryland’s Eastern Shore.
Established in 1868, the diocese comprises 56 parishes, 18 missions, and 27 schools. As it continues to provide spiritual guidance and support, the Diocese of Wilmington encourages all Catholics to embrace this opportunity for renewal and reconciliation on ‘Reconciliation Monday.’
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