Bishop Sherlock on First Confession (Canada).

London--On March 22, Bishop Sherlock sent a letter to religious consultants and teachers in the Diocese of London concerning First Confession and First Communion. First, he apologized for his failure to speak on these matters more clearly and consistently than he had done. Then he pointed out that Canon 914 of the Code of Canon Law says that it is the responsibility of parents, pastors, and those who take the place of parents to see that children who have reached the use of reason are prepared to receive Communion "as early as possible preceded by sacramental confession. ..."

In this Jubilee Year, he continues, the Holy Father, aware that sacramental confession has declined in our parishes, has urged that every effort be made to restore it. Apart from a culture which rejects the idea of personal sin, a major reason for the decline "is our failure to heed the Church's plea to allow children to experience sacramental reconciliation before First Holy Communion." We have unwittingly fostered a climate in which people receive the Eucharist when we know that they are objectively in a spiritual condition which makes confession imperative.

He asks those responsible to ensure that every child making First Holy Communion has the opportunity for Confession first, and concludes by saying. "Whatever you do to implement this decree cannot fail to increase love and reverence for the Holy Eucharist and bring rich graces to your parishioners, your students, and yourselves." A most welcome statement from a shepherd seriously concerned about the spiritual welfare of his flock.