Venice Diocese Extended Confession Hours Before Easter

Every parish in the Diocese of Venice will offer extended confession times this week to give Lee County Catholics a chance to receive the Sacrament of Reconciliation before Holy Week.

On Friday, March 27, confessors will be available from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. at all parishes. Additional times are available Saturday, March 28, from 9 a.m. to noon.

Bishop Frank J. Dewane arranged the extended hours to ensure Catholics have ample opportunity to confess during Lent. "It is heartwarming to talk to people of all ages who go to confession and are relieved and overjoyed at the benefits," Dewane said. "Some even scold themselves for missing such a beautiful Sacrament for so long."

Parishes throughout the diocese have already offered extended confession hours and Penance Services during Lent, with multiple priests available to hear confessions.

The Church has required Catholics to confess serious sins at least once a year since the Fourth Lateran Council of 1215.

For additional confession times, contact your local parish.