Our Church has three forms for this very special sacrament of Reconciliation. The first rite is for individual face to face confession, the third rite is for General Absolution and is only used with very large numbers in time of extreme need. the second rite is a combination of one and three.

All three Rites include: 1) scripture readings, 2) an examination of conscience, 3) an individual confession (or as directed in rite three) to the priest; and 4) absolution.

The two sacraments of Reconciliation and Eucharist are to be separated in time. For those preparing for first Reconciliation, it must preced the preparing for first Eucharist by several months.

The Law of the Church calls us to each go to individual confession at least once a year. It is not necessary to receive Reconciliation each time before the reception of Communion unless there has been serious grave sin. In this case, confession is required.