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THE SACRAMENT OF PENANCE

Jesus entrusted the ministry of reconciliation to the Church. The Sacrament of Penance is God's gift to us so that any sin committed after Baptism can be forgiven. In confession we have the opportunity to repent and recover the grace of friendship with God. It is a holy moment in which we place ourselves in his presence and honestly acknowledge our sins, especially mortal sins.  With absolution, we are reconciled to God and the Church. The Sacrament helps us stay close to the truth that we cannot live without God. "In him we live and move and have our being" (Acts 17:28).

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“Those who approach the sacrament of Penance obtain pardon from God’s mercy for the offense committed against him, and are, at the same time, reconciled with the Church which they have wounded by their sins and which by charity, by example, and by prayer labors for their conversion (CCC #1422)."

Examination of Conscience:

Before celebrating the Sacrament of Penance, one should prepare oneself with an examination of conscience, which involves reflecting prayerfully on one's thoughts, words, and deeds in order to identify any sins.

 

There are various types of examinations of conscience but regardless of which one you use to prepare yourself for the Sacrament it should be rooted in Scripture; particularly, the Ten Commandments and Beatitudes. Below are a few examples of Examinations of Conscience that can help you prepare for the Sacrament.

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MISSION STATEMENT

St. Mary Basilica Parish is a community of believers united by faith in Jesus Christ and committed to bringing about the kingdom of God. Parish members are encouraged to grow in faith through the celebration of the Eucharist and sacraments, by the study of the Sacred Scriptures and the Catholic Tradition, and by active participation in the ministries of the parish. Parish members are expected to be witnesses for their faith by loving support of one another and through service to the needy, the wider community, and the world mission of the Catholic Church.

CONTACT

Basilica Parish Office:

613 Main Street

Natchez, Mississippi 39120

phone 601.445.5616

fax  601.445.9631

email secretary@stmarybasilica.org

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For inquiries regarding weddings and baptisms, please contact the office.

SAFE ENVIRONMENT

The Basilica of Saint Mary is committed to providing a safe environment for all persons of every age, race, and state of life. In accordance with the Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People promulgated by the U.S. Bishops, the Diocese of Jackson encourages any victim of abuse by Clergy or Church Staff or Volunteers to come forward and begin the healing process. We encourage any victim to contact Erika Rojas, Victim Assistance coordinator at 601.326.3736.

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