Growing up, I remember going to church with my family and experiencing confession as a child. To be honest, it felt uncomfortable. I was nervous, unsure of what was expected, and didn’t truly understand its meaning. It seemed like something I had to do rather than something I could embrace.

For years, I stayed away from the sacrament of confession—not because I didn’t believe in forgiveness, but because I had always sought it on my own, in my own way. Yet, deep down, I knew there was something missing—something I wasn’t fully receiving.

A very close and dear friend encouraged me to go. She has been such a strong advocate for me in strengthening my faith, always reminding me that God’s grace is waiting. Her words stayed with me, and I began to feel the gentle pull toward something deeper.

I’ve been growing in my faith, and even in teaching it, it has taken time for me to take this step. As I shared lessons of penance and reconciliation with my students, I started seeing it differently. The more I explained it to them, the more I felt something stir in my own heart. I wasn’t just teaching them about healing—I was being called to experience it myself.

A Step in Faith: My Experience with Confession

Recently, I finally took that step and went to confession. I wasn’t sure what to expect, but as I poured my heart out in that moment, I felt a weight lift—one I hadn’t even realized I was carrying.

The experience was profound. A deep peace settled over me, replacing the heaviness I had unknowingly been holding onto. It wasn’t about following a set of rules or checking off a box—it was about real connection, a moment to release what no longer served me and to find healing through God’s infinite love.

The Power of Penance and Reconciliation

Through this experience, I’ve come to realize that the sacrament of penance and reconciliation is a gift of renewal. It is an opportunity to lay down our burdens—whether guilt, shame, regret, or mistakes—and step forward with a light heart and a fresh start.

For me, confession became a path to joy, freedom, and deeper faith.

If you are Catholic and have been away from the sacrament for some time, I encourage you to prayerfully consider returning. There is no shame in waiting or in needing time to take that step—only grace in coming back.

Finding Peace in God’s Forgiveness

Even if confession is not part of your faith tradition, the longing for peace, healing, and forgiveness is something we all experience. God’s mercy is always available, and He desires to bring us closer to Him.

Perhaps you can take a moment to:

• Spend time in prayer, opening your heart to God’s love.
• Write in a journal, releasing burdens you’ve been carrying.
• Reflect on ways to extend forgiveness—to yourself or to others.

It’s about giving yourself permission to heal, to be human, and to embrace joy—knowing that God is always there, waiting with open arms.

6 Steps Toward Reconciliation and Peace

If you’re feeling burdened or in need of a fresh start, here are some ways you can begin:

1. Find a Quiet Space

Step away from distractions and create a peaceful environment. Whether it’s a cozy corner of your home, a quiet church, or a walk in nature, allow yourself to be still and invite God’s presence into the moment.

2. Reflect on Your Heart

What are the burdens you carry? Are there past mistakes, regrets, or emotions weighing you down? Self-reflection is the first step to healing.

3. Pray or Journal

Express your heart to God. Whether through prayer or journaling, release what you’ve been holding onto. Putting your thoughts into words—spoken or written—can be incredibly freeing.

4. Seek God’s Forgiveness

If you are Catholic, consider receiving the sacrament of confession. If confession is not part of your faith practice, turn to prayer and trust that God’s mercy is always available.

5. Take a Step Forward

After releasing your burdens, take a step in faith. This doesn’t have to be a dramatic change—sometimes, it’s a small act of trust that brings us closer to inner peace.

6. Allow Yourself to Heal

Healing is a journey, not a destination. Give yourself grace and patience, knowing that God walks beside you every step of the way.

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You don’t need to have all the answers. You don’t need to follow a perfect plan.

You just need to take one step—a step toward freedom, healing, and God’s unwavering love.

Love & Blessings,

Jenny