The Sacraments of Healing are two of the most beautiful aspects of our Catholic faith, bringing peace, comfort, and healing to those in spiritual and physical need.
Displaying a tangible reflection of the Church’s mission to continue the healing work of Christ in our world today, the sacraments encompass Christianity’s integral themes of forgiveness, renewal, and healing to those who ask. They include:
- Sacrament of Reconciliation
- Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick
To find out more about these two sacraments, please explore the drop downs below:
The Sacrament of Reconciliation, commonly known as Confession, offers Catholics a wonderful opportunity to receive the loving mercy and forgiveness of God.
By reflecting on the ways in which we have damaged our relationship with God, each other, and the world around us, we are invited to say sorry, to confess our sins, do penance, and receive the forgiveness that Christ promised when he told his apostles: “For those whose sins you forgive, they are forgiven. Those whose sins you retain, they are retained.” (John 20:23)
Receiving the Sacrament of Reconciliation
The Sacrament of Reconciliation is offered to people who have been baptised or received into the Catholic Church. It is for those who are truly sorry for their sins and who fully intend to turn away from sin in the future.
Usually, children around the age of seven make their First Confession, ahead of making their First Holy Communion. To find out more about how your child can make their First Confession, please speak with your parish priest or your child’s school, if they attend a Catholic school.
If you are an adult looking to make your first confession, please speak with your parish priest.
Non-Catholics may, of course, speak with a priest for guidance and advice but will not receive the absolution offered through the sacrament.
How can I go to Confession?
Contacting your local parish to enquire about confession times is the best place to begin. If you prefer to visit a nearby parish to receive this sacrament, you can find contact details and information about confessions by searching our Online Directory.
Resources
Is your child preparing for their first confession or first Holy Communion? The Heart Speaks to Heart book (produced by the Diocese of Leeds) is a fantastic resource helping families, schools, and parishes work together to guide young people on these important first steps of faith.
To find out more about the book and how to get a copy, please email formation@dioceseofsalford.org.uk
If you are a catechist looking for further resources, please click here.
This solemn sacrament gifts the healing touch of Christ to those who are sick or dying; bringing comfort, peace, and healing to those in need.
Known as the Sacrament of the Sick, this beautiful rite can bring actual physical healing to some but spiritual healing to all, equipping those who suffer with the courage, strength, and peace to face the challenges that lie ahead.
This peaceful sacrament is offered to those who have been baptised or received into the Catholic Church, or non-Catholics who are in danger of death.
It can be received more than once during serious illness or old age.
Receiving the Sacrament of the Sick
If you, or someone you know, is need of the Sacrament of the Sick, please contact your local parish directly.
Contact details can be found via our Online Directory.