For Christians, the Eucharist is the apex of our Faith, Creed, Theology, Worship, Teachings, and Spiritual life; and receiving Holy Communion regularly at the Divine Liturgy, or as St. Paul intimates, living “from glory to glory” (2nd Cor. 3:18), reinforces and culminates the very purpose of that event, being “in communion” with God.
However, to approach the chalice and receive the sacrament of our Lord’s Body and Blood on a regular basis also entails constant preparation through prayer, fasting, and a modicum of spiritual effort or struggle against sinful behavior. And although this often proves impossible (because of our fallen nature and weakness), nonetheless we are still called upon to strive towards that goal and seek God’s help in this arena.
Yet, since we do transgress God’s Commandments, fall into temptation, and/or give into our passions, the Church provides the Sacrament of Confession through which we may find cleansing, healing, and forgiveness from those sins.
Although the frequency in which we participate in this sacrament is left up to the individual and their conscience, the Church teaches that it is important to try and go quarterly, or during the four prescribed Lenten seasons: Great Lent, Advent, St. Peter and Paul Fast, and Dormition Fast. This is certainly a good policy and guideline to aspire towards, however, our parish by-laws explicitly state that to be a “member in good standing,” one needs to participate in the Sacraments Confession and Holy Communion at least once a year, preferably during the Great Fast in preparation of Pascha.
Therefore, if you have not yet fulfilled this obligation, as the pastor of this parish, shepherd of this flock, and Spiritual Father entrusted and concerned with your care, I am encouraging you to come and fulfill this pious Christian duty; not simply to comply with our parish’s by-laws, but more importantly for the salvific benefits of the sacraments themselves.
Confessions are heard regularly before and after vespers, or by appointment during the week. If you have any questions regarding the sacrament of Confession or Holy Communion, the policies or preparations surrounding them, or any questions whatsoever, please do not hesitate to contact, call, or approach me in person so that we might discuss any issues and explain procedural aspects.
