This simple, said, 45 or so minute service of Holy Communion is an opportunity to gather quietly, pray, and reflect with some questions for self-examination on those parts of our lives which we find bring us discomfort, even a sense of guilt, or of shame.
The purpose of penitence is to release us from such feelings, to let go, and to hear again the message of God's healing and forgiveness as we move through this holy season towards the celebration of Easter.