b'Reconciliation We can see this hesitation in the numbers. A 2016 CARA study showed that about 43 percent of Catholics never participate in this sacrament, and 28 percent participate less than once a year. And that was five years ago . . . pre-pandemic! Teachers and catechists have the unique opportunity to reclaim this sacrament not only for children but for theirfamilies as well. When we approach this sacrament with the right attitude, it can be a sacramental moment of great joy.Pope Francis reminds us, There are people who are afraid to go to confession, forgetting that they will not encounter a severe judge there, but the immensely merciful father. Catechists and teachers have an opportunity to help others focus on the merciful and loving God that awaits all in the Sacrament of Penance and Reconciliation.Begin with the Nature of SinSin is not a happy aspect of our lives, but it is a reality for all people. It is part of the human condition (for a refresher, revisit Genesis, chapters 2 and 3). Sin is unavoidable because we are not perfect. Only God is perfect.When introducing the Sacrament of Penance and Reconciliation, begin with a realistic perspective about the universal nature of sin. Sin is not something we can completely avoid. Sin is inevitable. Our task is to recognize our sin and cooperate with Gods grace to rise above it. smp.org/inspire 19'