Is absolution without pennance ok?

[Patty_Cake]

Hello: I am a candidate for confirmation this Easter. Today, in a penance service, I received the Sacrament of Reconciliation for the first time. The Monsignor gave me absolution but no penance. I was expecting a penance since I am 57 and had some mortal sins to confess. What does the lack of penance signify? I was really surprised. Should I go back to confession this weekend when there is more time? But I cannot confess the same sins again. I am a bit confused. Would you comment on this, please. Thank you.

 

[Fr.Vincent_Serpa]

Hi,

First of all, your first experience of the sacrament of Penance should be one outside of a communal service which is the normal way Catholics go to Confession. Unfortunately, most Catholics go to Confession so seldom that their reception of that sacrament is limited to the communal Penance services usually held near Christmas and Easter. We all need to go to Confession more often, like once a month–and you need to know how to do it in this way.

The fact that the priest did not give you a penence does not require that you go back for it–even though heshould have. Just say a prayer such as the Lord’s Prayer and that will be enough. We rejoice with you at this solemn and sacred time in your life.

Fr. Vincent Serpa, O.P.