Advent, the beginning of a new liturgical year, standing on the threshold of a new calendar year invites us to reflect on where we have been and where we would like to be going in our spiritual lives. Self-reflection can sometimes lead to the desire for do-overs, asking forgiveness for failings and hope for better choices ahead. The Sacrament of Reconciliation provides the occasion for entrusting these regrets and aspirations to the Lord and receiving his mercy and forgiveness.

These services will provide some respite from the frantic pace of holiday preparations and an opportunity to do some spiritual housecleaning ahead of the Christmas season. 

• Communal celebration, 6:30PM, Tuesday, Dec. 10  at St. Francis of Assisi, 391 Delaware Ave. 
• Penance Service with individual confessions, 6:30PM, Wednesday, Dec. 11 at St. Thomas the Apostle in Delmar
• All-day confessions, 9:30AM-6:30PM, Thursday,  Dec. 12 at Christ the King, 20 Sumter Ave in Guilderland
• Confessions, 9AM-Noon and 4-6PM, Friday, Dec. 13 at St. Matthew’s, 25 Mountainview St. in Voorheesville 
• All-day confessions, 8AM-7PM, Monday, Dec. 16 and Wednesday, Dec. 18 at St. Thomas the Apostle in Delmar

Additional opportunities to receive this sacrament will be held weekly during Lent, including at these Albany parishes:

• St. Vincent's: Saturdays at 4:30pm before Mass
• Historic St. Mary’s: Wednesdays after the 12:05pm Mass until 1:45pm
• Mater Christi: Wednesdays at 4:30pm before Adoration
• All Saints: Thursdays from 5-8pm, Confession and Adoration
• Blessed Sacrament: Tuesday and Thursday after Mass from 12:30-1:30 pm