New York, USA - Some New York City Catholic churches are trying to send a message that it's never too late to come to confession.
A few churches stayed open from Friday night through early Saturday morning in hope of boosting participation in one of the faith's sacraments. Several other parishes offered extended hours.
Organizers and the Archdiocese of New York say the "24 Hours of Confession" event was the first of its kind in the city. It's modeled on a similar undertaking in Chicago.
"I feel light," said Adeline Canasa, 53, a nurse, who confessed at St. John the Baptist on West 31st Street after 1 a.m. Saturday. "I've been carrying this guilty conscience with me. I'm happy inside now."
Organizer Mario Bruschi said at least 855 confessions were made as part of the event. He runs a young adults volunteer group based at St. Patrick's Cathedral.
Confession is an admission of sins to a priest. It is considered an essential part of the Roman Catholic Sacrament of Penance.