We have the two reconciliation services in Advent and Lent. They are always VERY well attended, in fact at the last one there were so many people waiting for individual confession that they canceled the rest of the penance service so that the priest who was leading it could go take his place in the confessional. They called in extra priests from surrounding parishes, in addition to our three there were at least five others, scattered about anywhere they could find a quiet corner. I heard later that it took over three hours to get all the confessions heard, even with 8 or more priests "houseling and shriving as fast as shelling peas" . . . (stolen from one of Arthur Conan Doyle's historical novels) < g >
I think a lot of folks just can't make it to the Saturday 4:30 p.m. scheduled weekly confession. With the very best will in the world, I try to make a monthly confession, but what with sports practice, family activities out of town, work, dog trials, etc. I sometimes come panting in and find the priest has already left! If it were offered between the two main services on Sunday, or more frequently, I think there would be more frequent participation.
We have the two reconciliation services in Advent and Lent. They are always VERY well attended You are obviously not in the sanctified diocese of Albany NY.
Thank you for posting such good news. It truly warms my heart and soul to know that outside this arrid desert of a diocese, true catholicism flourishes. I always enjoy your posts! How is the dog?