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“Have mercy on me, O God, in your goodness; in the greatness of your compassion wipe out my offenses. Thoroughly wash me from my guilt and of my sin cleanse me.”
— Psalm 51
When a number of penitents assemble at the same time to receive sacramental absolution, it is fitting that they be prepared for the sacrament by a celebration of the word of God.
Those who will receive the sacrament at another time may also take part in the service. Communal celebration shows more clearly the ecclesial nature of penance.
The faithful listen together to the word of God, which proclaims his mercy and invites them to conversion; at the same time they examine the conformity of their lives with that word of God and help each other through common prayer.
During Lent it is appropriate for all the baptized—including those candidates who are preparing to be received into the full communion of the Catholic Church and those candidates preparing to celebrate confirmation or first Communion during the Easter season—to participate in the Sacrament of Penance. Remember that catechumens cannot celebrate the Sacrament of Penance until after they are baptized; however, they can be encouraged to participate in the liturgy to be strengthened by the Word of God and the modeling of penitence by the assembly
“He pardons all your iniquities, he heals all your ills. He redeems your life from destruction, he crowns you with kindness and compassion.”