This year churches across the Arlington diocese again will participate in “The Light Is ON For You” initiative to encourage parishioners to receive the sacrament of reconciliation during Lent.

As part of the initiative, churches will be open for quiet prayer and confession every Wednesday at 6:30 p.m. throughout Lent, from the week after Ash Wednesday until Holy Week. Social media messages, advertisements and other outreach about the initiative also are planned.

The Archdiocese of Washington and the Diocese of Arlington have created a website with information about the sacrament. The website includes advice on how to prepare for confession and walks parishioners through the process. It includes background and details about what to say and includes prayers and other resources.

Although many parishes have been livestreaming Masses and holding meetings via Zoom during the pandemic, receiving the sacraments is something that can’t be done remotely — sacraments require physical presence.

As the COVID-19 pandemic continues, parish schedules may still be in flux, so please verify times and locations with your parish.

Find out more

thelightison.org