On March 27, 2012, Padua Academy held their annual Lenten Reconciliation service. In the morning, the Chorus program held a prayer service. Students from Salesianum and Ursuline joined Padua students to lead our community in a time of song and prayer. Maggie Fassano (‘13), Victoria Pezdirtz (‘12), Mrs. Slater, Mr. Mahler, and Ms. Muto spoke between song pieces, telling the story of the end of Jesus’ life. It was evident by the look on girls’ and faculty members’ faces that this was also a time of reflection before taking part in the sacrament of reconciliation.
By definition, the word “reconcile” means to re-establish a close relationship between ourselves and God, and the sacrament of reconciliation is just that. This particular sacrament is all about being forgiven and coming closer to God. For most people, recognizing and accepting the fact that you are wrong is extremely difficult, and asking for forgiveness may even be the hardest thing you may need to do.
The actual sacrament took place in the afternoon in the Chapel and Library. Priests traveled from all over our community to serve the students and made time in their day to help out. Since Padua is a faith-filled community, it was no surprise that the afternoon was filled with many students going to confess their sins and reconcile just in time for Easter.