Reflection 

Reconciliation

The word reconciliation means restoring peace, friendship, or harmony after a disagreement or separation. In a social or interpersonal context, reconciliation happens when people resolve conflict, forgive one another, and rebuild trust. On a larger societal scale, reconciliation can refer to efforts between groups or nations to overcome division and work towards unity and justice, such as in truth and reconciliation processes after times of conflict or injustice.  In a religious context, especially in the Catholic Church, reconciliation is a sacrament where individuals seek forgiveness from God, repair their relationship with Him, and experience healing through confession and absolution. Across all these contexts, reconciliation is about healing, forgiveness, and restoring right relationships.

It is such a joy to gather together—parents, children, and staff—and prepare our hearts and minds for the beautiful Sacrament of Reconciliation. At the heart of our Faith Night's gathering is a simple but powerful truth: God is like a loving parent—always ready to welcome us, no matter what. His love is unconditional, patient, and overflowing with mercy.

It is not only about learning the steps of the sacrament, but more importantly, it’s about recognising that God is always waiting for us with open arms, ready to forgive, to restore, and to remind us that we are deeply loved. As Pope Francis so beautifully reminds us:

“God never tires of forgiving us; we are the ones who tire of seeking his mercy.”

May this coming week be a time of reflection, conversation, and renewed understanding for all parents and their children as they journey together in faith.