Ritual Actions
Examination of Conscience: During this quiet time of reflection, we examine our conscience to remember times we may have sinned or failed to live as God intended. This time of inner questioning also allows us to reflect on Christ’s teachings and further develop our conscience. Individual Reconciliation (second rite): There are many steps within the ceremony of reconciliation, completing each in order is a ritual in itself. As the penitent progresses through the steps, they are communicating honestly with God through the priest. We identify and confess our sins, in hope of returning to God. We express regret and receive penance, ensuring we amend our lives. We receive absolution from the priest and accept the forgiveness of God. Penance: Prayer, penance or other acts of good will performed as directed by the priest in order to make amends for the hurt we have cause by our sins. The Sign of the Cross: Catholics begin and end prayer with the ‘sign of the cross’. The priest also performs the sign of the cross over the penitent during absolution. This ritual affirms our faith in the Holy Trinity: the Father (God), the Son (Jesus Christ) and the Holy Spirit. |
Ritual Words
Prayer of Sorrow or Act of Contrition: During the reconciliation ceremony, it is a common ritual to say the Prayer of Sorrow or Act of Contrition. These prayers contain words which express: sorrow for having sinned, desire to repair the relationship with God and resolve to amend their life. Catholics also perform rituals such as genuflecting (kneeling, facing the alter and performing the sign of the cross) and being reverent in church. These rituals are symbolic of the sanctity of the Church and recognize the presence of God. |