The service marked the start of the worldwide celebration of “24 Hours for the Lord,” a period when at least one church in every diocese was invited to be open all night — or at least for extended hours — for confession and eucharistic adoration.
A heart filled with scorn, vain presumption is a ticket to hell, pope says
Pope to open Lenten prayer, penance service at Rome parish
This year the pope will celebrate the initiative, “24 Hours for the Lord,” with confessions March 17-18.
Pope extends special Year of Mercy provisions on confession
Acknowledging and sharing God’s mercy is a permanent part of the Christian life, so initiatives undertaken during the special Year of Mercy must continue, Pope Francis said.