During the 2012 Synod of Bishops, which focused on the theme of New Evangelization, it became clear that the Sacrament of Reconciliation should be a central part of the Church's pastoral life.
To answer that need, a Vatican council organized what would eventually be called the '24 Hours for the Lord' initiative.
This year, Pope Francis will start the event by holding a penitential celebration at St. Peter's Basilica on March 13th. Churches throughout Rome and the world will then open for confession and Eucharistic Adoration. The initiative was first celebrated last year, when Pope Francis famously went to confession. The event has returned again in 2015 with a new theme.
REV. GENO SYLVA Pontifical Council for the Promotion of the New Evangelization
'It's just really exciting. And the theme this year is taken from the Letter to the Ephesians, 'God rich in mercy.'
Reminding people that God is merciful is largely meant to encourage those who have been away from the Church, for whatever reason, that they will always be welcomed back.
REV. GENO SYLVA Pontifical Council for the Promotion of the New Evangelization
'I would ask people, 'Why are you back after 40 years? You're coming back to the sacrament.' And many, many people said, 'Because Pope Francis asked us! He invited us!''
The Vatican hopes that people throughout the world will be inspired to attend confession during the '24 Hours for the Lord.'
A pastoral aid is available in Italian, English, Spanish, French, and Polish.
