The Tablet Staff

Parishes throughout the New York City area are providing an opportunity for Catholics to go to confession on Dec. 16 on what is called “Reconciliation Monday.”

Bishop Nicholas DiMarzio and Cardinal Timothy Dolan of the Archdiocese of New York are encouraging parishioners to follow this year’s Reconciliation Monday theme of “Prepare Your Heart For Christmas.” 

For many in the Brooklyn Diocese, Reconciliation Monday represents another opportunity during Advent to become refreshed and renewed in their faith.  

Churches in the diocese and archdiocese will be open from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. for walk-in confessions, where the faithful may be absolved of their sins in anonymity. 

“One of the advantages is that you do not have to go to your own parish, as you can go to another church and be unknown if there is some embarrassment in knowing the priest who will hear your confession,” Bishop DiMarzio said in a statement. 

“This is the time when the priest is merely an instrument of God’s grace and that the real absolver is Jesus Christ, Himself,” the bishop said.   

To find a parish near you in Brooklyn or Queens, go to dioceseofbrooklyn.org/parishes/locator