The work of the Liturgy Committee to date, including consultation with parishioners, has resulted in the development of a renovation concept. This concept includes a number of matters we would like considered in plans for a renovated church. One consideration for our renovation plans is:
The establishment of a new chapel of reconciliation
Those who have contributed to the conversation so far believe this is important because:
The sacrament of penance is ordinarily celebrated in a church or oratory, unless a legitimate reason stands in the way. The conferences of bishops are to establish the norms pertaining to the confessional, which will include provision for clearly visible confessionals that the faithful who wish may readily use and that are equipped with a fixed screen between the penitent and the confessor. (Rite of Penance, 12)
The practice of reserving a special place in churches for the celebration of the sacrament of reconciliation is a clear expression of the truth that sacramental confession and absolution constitute a liturgical action which involves the entire body of the Church and is intended to renew the participation of the faithful in the Church’s offering of the sacrifice of Christ. (Book of Blessings, 1080)
Liturgy 