Lent is the season where we prepare ourselves to renew and restore our relationship with Jesus and the Church as we prepare to celebrate Easter. For many of us the Sacrament of Confession can be scary and even embarrassing. We may be too nervous or consider ourselves unforgivable. Yet with confidence Pope Francis reminds us:

“How many times in my pastoral ministry have I heard it said, ‘Father, I have many sins,’ & I have always pleaded, ‘Don’t be afraid; go to him; he is waiting for you; he will take care of everything.’ We hear many offers from the world around us, but let us take up God’s offer instead: his is a caress of love."

 –Pope Francis, Homily, Basilica of St. John Lateran,

Divine Mercy Sunday, April 7, 2013.