Dear Ones of St. Columba's,

One of the secret gems of our Episcopal tradition is an often hidden rite that sometimes gets highlighted during Lent - The Rite of Reconciliation. This is our version of what Roman Catholics might know as Confession, but it's not quite the same. The Rite of Reconciliation is an opportunity to seek reconciliation with God or with other people through the use of a sacramental rite. 

Let me pause for a moment and tell you the difference between a sacrament and a sacramental rite. In the Episcopal tradition there are only two sacraments: Baptism and Eucharist. These are essential to us, gifts from God that need to be available to all human beings who want them for the purposes of our spiritual health. One reason this past year has been so incredibly difficult for many of us has been that we have been denied the sacraments. I am so glad this unlooked for fast is coming to an end in the very near future. 

Sacramental rites, however, are not something that are necessarily essential for every person. They still involve God's loving action and spiritual nourishment, but they aren't all for everyone, or necessary for everyone. These are things like Marriage, Ordination, Ministration to the Dying (Last Rites), and the Rite of Reconciliation. People who are called to them meet God and are blessed. But, as the saying goes, for most of these "all can, some should, none must." 

So back to the Rite of Reconciliation. It is a confession - a meeting between you and (usually) a priest to say out loud what needs forgiving and to be forgiven by God. It is an experience that is always available to those who need or want it, but we do tend to remind you of its availability each Lenten season, as we all journey together toward the cross. 

If you want to read through the rite, you can find it beginning on page 446 of the Book of Common Prayer, or look it up at bcponline,org.

If you would like to do this rite of reconciliation this Lent, or anytime, simply let us know by clicking here and filling out this form.If you would like to do this rite of reconciliation this Lent, or anytime, simply let us know by clicking here and filling out this form.

If you would prefer, for any reason, to confess to a male priest just let us know. We have a partnership in this with The Rev. Josh Hosler, who serves Good Shepherd Federal Way, and he is available to anyone who feels more comfortable confessing to a male for any reason. Meghan and I understand that this might be important to some, and isn't a thing that would occur to others! 

Friends, no one needs to do this in order to be seen, known, loved, or forgiven by God. But this rite is here for you if you want to try it, or need to speak out loud and hear aloud the words of God's forgiveness.

I am so grateful to travel this road along with you.

with care and gratitude,

Alissa