A resolution of reconciliation would start 2015 off right

An American survey from more than a year ago showed that 45 per cent of people usually make New Year’s resolutions and another 38 per cent never make them. But only eight per cent of people are successful in achieving their resolutions. Self-improvement and weight-related resolutions are the most popular, followed by money-related and relationship-related vows.

New Year’s resolutions are somewhat akin to the Sacrament of Reconciliation. We approach the confessional, reveal our sins to the priest and ask forgiveness of God. Then, we resolve not to commit the sins again. But few of us are successful in achieving the resolution to go and sin no more.

Another six-year-old American survey shows that three-quarters of Catholics report to never participating in the Sacrament of Reconciliation. About 12 per cent said they took advantage of the sacrament once a year.
And one doesn’t have to apply much science when attending local penitential services to realize that the numbers have been steadily falling. So, one in eight Catholics participate in confession once a year, but that number increases significantly among Catholics who say they attend Mass each week.