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.
Organizer Mario Bruschi says 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.
