The season of Advent that began on the first Sunday of December marks the beginning of a new liturgical year in the Roman Catholic Church. A season marked by anticipation and hope it is a good time for every Catholic, active or inactive, current or former, to experience Christ’s love in the Sacrament of Reconciliation.

“The Light is ON for You” is an initiative of the Roman Catholic Church that highlights the importance of receiving the Sacrament of Reconciliation (Penance/Confession), the source of God’s mercy and healing love, in the life of Catholics. The Diocese of Portland Maine makes the practice more available by opening the doors of its churches in hopes that every Catholic will accept this special invitation to experience Christ’s love in the Sacrament of Reconciliation during the Advent season.

Locally three churches from All Saints Parish will be joining other Roman Catholic churches throughout the diocese to make the Sacrament of Reconciliation available to those who wish to the receive the healing power of God.

The Sacrament of Reconciliation will be held from 6:00-7:00pm Monday, December 16 at St. Mary Church, 144 Lincoln Street, Bath; 6:00-7:00pm Tuesday, December 17 at St. John the Baptist Church, 35 Pleasant Street, Brunswick; and 6:00- 7:00pm Wednesday, December 18 at St. Patrick Church, 380 Academy Hill Road, Newcastle. One or more priests will be present at each location for these special evening hours.

The sacrament will also be available at the regularly scheduled times of 3:00- 3:45pm on Saturday, December 14 and 21 at St. John the Baptist Church and St. Mary Church, and up to 15 minutes before any Mass or after Mass at Our Lady Queen of Peace, 82 Atlantic Avenue, Boothbay Harbor and St. Patrick Church, or by making an appointment with the priest.

Come for the healing power of God’s love in the Sacrament of Reconciliation or come and spend an hour in silent prayer.

For more information call the parish office at 725-2624 or visit the parish website www.allsaintsmaine.com.