If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.
I John 1:9
God’s mercy is always waiting for you.
Whether you go to Confession regularly or haven’t been in years, you are always welcome to return.
At Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic Church in Glendale, Arizona, we invite you to experience God’s forgiveness, healing, and peace through the Sacrament of Reconciliation.
You don’t need to have everything figured out or remember every prayer perfectly. What matters is taking that first step toward God’s mercy.
Confession Times at OLPH
Every Saturday at 9:00 AM
Confessionals are located at the back of the church, behind the altar.
When you arrive, look for the green light above the confessional door. This indicates that the priest is available. Please make sure the confessional is unoccupied before entering.
No appointment is necessary.
What Is the Sacrament of Reconciliation?
Reconciliation, also known as Confession or Penance, is the sacrament through which we receive God’s forgiveness for sins committed after Baptism.
When we confess our sins with sincere repentance, Christ offers us mercy through the ministry of the priest, restores our relationship with God, and strengthens us to begin again.
Confession is not about being perfect. It is about recognizing our need for God’s grace and trusting in His love.
How to Go to Confession
If it’s been a while since your last Confession, don’t worry. The priest will help guide you through the process.
Before Confession, take a few moments to pray and reflect on your thoughts, words, actions, and choices.
This is called an Examination of Conscience. Ask God to help you recognize where you have fallen short in loving Him and others.
Enter the confessional and make the Sign of the Cross.
You may begin by saying:
“Bless me, Father, for I have sinned. It has been [amount of time] since my last Confession.”
If you don’t remember exactly how long it has been, that’s okay. Just tell the priest as best you can.
Tell the priest your sins honestly and sincerely.
You don’t need to tell a long story or explain every detail. If you’re nervous or unsure what to say, let the priest know. He is there to help you.
The priest may offer guidance and will give you a penance, often a prayer or an act of charity, to help you grow spiritually.
The priest will invite you to express your sorrow for your sins.
You may pray the following Act of Contrition:Act of Contrition
My God, I am sorry for my sins with all my heart.
In choosing to do wrong and failing to do good, I have sinned against you, whom I should love above all things.
I firmly intend, with your help, to do penance, to sin no more, and to avoid whatever leads me to sin.
Our Savior Jesus Christ suffered and died for us.
In his name, my God, have mercy.
The priest will pray the Prayer of Absolution, through which Christ grants forgiveness.
Make the Sign of the Cross as the priest concludes the prayer.
After leaving the confessional, complete the penance you were given and take a moment to thank God for His mercy.
Frequently Asked Questions
You are welcome to return at any time.
Simply tell the priest that it has been a long time and that you may need some guidance. He can help you through the sacrament.
Don’t let that stop you. The priest can guide you, and you can use the Act of Contrition provided on this page to prepare.
It’s normal to feel nervous, especially if you haven’t been to Confession in a while.
Remember that Confession is an encounter with God’s mercy. The priest is there to help you receive that gift, not to make you feel ashamed.
Yes. The Catholic Church requires priests to maintain the absolute confidentiality of everything learned through sacramental Confession. This is called the seal of Confession.
No. Confessions are heard on Saturdays at 9:00 AM at OLPH.
It’s never too late to begin again.
Whether it’s been a few weeks or many years, Christ invites you to return to Him with an open heart.
We welcome you to celebrate the Sacrament of Reconciliation at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic Church.
Confessions: Saturdays at 9:00 AM