"If you forgive the sins of any, they are forgiven; if you retain the sins of any, they are retained" (John 20:23)

In the book of John, God gave the apostles the power of the Holy Spirit to go out and forgive sins. As Catholics, we believe when a priest is ordained, they are given this same blessing.

Reasons to go to Confession:

1. Repentance: Confession is a chance to repent and regain God's friendship
2. Forgiveness: Confession is an opportunity to experience God's healing through forgiveness
3. Reconciliation: Confession allows people to reconcile with the Church, which is harmed by the sins people commit
4. Renewal: Confession can renew a person's relationship with God the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit