Roman Catholics are expected to receive the Sacrament of Reconciliation at least once or twice a year. Preferably, it is highly recommended that Catholics receive the sacrament during Advent and Lent. In December, the Jesuit Dallas Campus Ministry offered the opportunity to receive this incredible sacrament. During lunch periods from December 5-8, the Jesuit priests would listen to a multitude of students giving their confessions.
Fr. Sylvester Tan, S.J. says “I thought it was a great opportunity to offer the chance for students and faculty and staff to be able to encounter the Lord’s mercy. I can’t say what anyone said because of the seal of confession but I can say that God worked miracles, as God does and the sacrament.”
What is confession?
The sacrament of confession is a chance for one to receive God’s grace. Catholics are required to go to confession when in a state of mortal sin. However, most people go because they want to prepare spiritually for significant liturgical events.
Fr. Tan explained it like this: “God shares his life, which is a life of love. He doesn’t force it on us. God shows Adam and Eve the way, but he doesn’t force it. They didn’t choose God’s way. When they make that choice, they hide in shame. God, a benevolent father who respects human freedom, doesn’t drag them out when called off from a distance. Jesus doesn’t want to steal our sins from us. He wants our permission to take them away. In confession, we give him permission to take away our sins. This shows God’s respect for our desire to see what God gives.”
Confession at Jesuit
There have been many opportunities to go to confession this semester. The Freshmen class during one Freshmen Athletics period gathered in the Terry Center to attend the sacrament as a class. More recently the lunchtime confessions have been offered as preparation for the upcoming Christmas season.
When discussing the reconciliation with Mr. Gan, he stated that, “I think the reconciliation went really well. There’s really a need for this for students. At first, we were curious to see what happens. But at some point, it seems like it’s something that was definitely missed and something they were looking for. Overall, I’m glad that the school offered them. Even the priests enjoyed them. We’ll definitely provide more opportunities in the future.”
If you want to receive confession, you can always go during the school day. Jesuit priests are always available in their offices. Their offices are located in the administration wing, which is next to Mr. Earsing’s office.
Stay tuned for more campus ministry news and information!