Life

A revival of Reconciliation at Assumption Grammar School

Sacrament of Reconciliation at Assumption Grammar School, Ballynahinch. Students take one of the booklets about preparing for the sacrament. Picture by Ann McManus
Sacrament of Reconciliation at Assumption Grammar School, Ballynahinch. Students take one of the booklets about preparing for the sacrament. Picture by Ann McManus Sacrament of Reconciliation at Assumption Grammar School, Ballynahinch. Students take one of the booklets about preparing for the sacrament. Picture by Ann McManus

ASSUMPTION Grammar School in Ballynahinch further developed its faith initiatives this week when it reintroduced the Sacrament of Reconciliation.

Pope Francis has fostered a revival of interest in the sacrament, which he has called "an embrace of mercy and joy", and five priests visited the school as students undertook Confession.

Students were encouraged to examine their consciences by shifting from the idea of a 'shopping list' of sins to a deeper reflection on areas of life.

Points for silent reflection included 'do I look after my health?', 'do I respect my body?', 'do I keep good company and avoid people who will lead me astray?', 'do I work hard at school to make the most of my abilities?', 'do I spend too much time distracted by social media?' and 'do I spend too much time on myself, overly concerned about my physical wellbeing and appearance?'.

Booklets prepared to guide students through the sacrament carried words of Pope Francis in which he describes it as "being enfolded in a warm embrace" and recalls Jesus' parable about the prodigal son: "It is the Father's infinite mercy and joy. Let us recall that beautiful parable of the son who left his home with the money of his inheritance.

"He wasted all the money and then, when he had nothing left, he decided to return home, not as a son but as a servant.

"His heart was filled with so much guilt and shame.

"The surprise came when he began to speak, to ask for forgiveness - his father did not let him speak, he embraced him, he kissed him, and he began to make merry.

"But I am telling you: each time we go to confession, God embraces us. God rejoices.

"May we allow his love to renew us as his children and to reconcile us with him, with ourselves and with one another.

"Let us go forward on this road. May God bless you."

A Mass for the Holy Souls was also celebrated - the school launched a bereavement ministry in September, and families who have had the name of a loved one entered into a book of remembrance were invited to the school.

Assumption has recently established a Rosary Club and in March Archbishop Charles Brown, Papal Nuncio to Ireland, celebrated Mass as around 40 students undertook Marian Consecration.