The Line Is Long: What a Blessing!

Elizabeth Estrada celebrates a new development in her parish that have made long lines well worth the wait.

It seems contradictory to want to wait in line, but when it is for Confession, I believe it is a blessing. There is a parish close to where I live that I have belonged to and have been a part of the volunteer community for a long time.

When I began going there for Confession even on a Saturday many times I would walk in and there might be one or two people in line with two priests hearing confessions. Lately even if you arrive 30 minutes before Confession begins, there is a line already!

I believe it is because of the new pastors and vicars that have led this parish over the last seven years. They are on fire for our faith and really use the homily as a way to catechize so that their flock can make their faith a part of their lives instead of only a Sunday obligation.

This is exciting because in the Confession line, there are people of all ages and many families waiting to receive this beautiful sacrament. The love and reverence for the faith of these priests is obvious to me in this dramatic change.

Parish Culture

Seeing more parishioners participate in confession is only one way that the parish has changed. The parish has an Instagram page which highlights events and even posts teachings about different parts of our faith.

One of the most innovative posts, I thought, was where a part of the church building was highlighted daily with an explanation of its importance.

The love of the faith of these priests is obvious in how they are trying their best to be innovative to reach as many people as possible to come back to the Faith or to provide a place where they can learn more and more to make it a part of their daily lives.

I volunteer at this parish, participate in different groups, and attend Mass when I can.

Gratitude and Hope

Being a witness to how this parish has changed gives me hope that others will as well. The priests are a part of the change but the people who support and pray for the priests is what makes such a difference.

We all know that our priests work hard and are overextended. Perhaps we can approach our priests with ideas and volunteer to start a committee or group that kicks it off for the parish.

Remember that we don't have to start with big ideas. It may be something as simple as having a page on Instagram with a saint quote for the day or upcoming events.

My hope is that perhaps you will be inspired to take a baby step, but most importantly don't forget to pray for your priests.

They really need it.

Is there anything that has made a change for the better in your parish?

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Copyright 2026 Elizabeth Estrada
Images: Canva; iStockPhoto.com, licensed for use by Holy Cross Family Ministries