Several priests will join us for our upcoming Advent Penance service.  The priests will hear confessions after a brief liturgy of the Word.  Advent is a "penitential season" that helps us to turn all the more towards the Lord.  Christians convert to Jesus throughout the whole of their lives.  The journey of conversion involves a vigilance on our part to become more and more aware of how we allow created things or our weakened hearts to distract us from following the path of Jesus.  Confession, preceded by a thorough examination of conscience, softens our hearts preparing us to receive Jesus fruitfully in the Holy Eucharist and at Christmas.  Repentance is a joyful event.  Anytime we are moving towards the Lord there should be joy.  We should not be afraid to give our hearts to the Lord in this wonderful sacrament of joy and new life.   You can find a helpful "Examination of Conscience" preparation card at both main entrances to the Church.