The Sacrament of Reconciliation is one of the Church's greatest gifts. Through it, we encounter God's mercy directly and receive forgiveness for sins committed after Baptism. It is not a burden — it is a liberation.
Before Confession, take time to reflect on your sins since your last Confession. An examination of conscience typically reviews the Ten Commandments and the Precepts of the Church. Ask the Holy Spirit to enlighten your memory and bring to mind anything that needs to be confessed.
Common areas to examine: pride, anger, dishonesty, impurity, gossip, neglect of prayer, missing Mass without cause, uncharitable thoughts or actions.
You may sit face-to-face with the priest or kneel behind a screen. Begin with the Sign of the Cross and say: "Bless me, Father, for I have sinned. It has been [time] since my last Confession."
Tell the priest your sins honestly and completely — type and number for mortal sins. Do not be afraid. The priest is bound by the seal of Confession and cannot reveal anything you confess, under any circumstances.
The priest may offer advice or ask questions to help you grow in virtue. He will assign a penance — usually prayers or an act of charity — to repair the damage of sin.
Express sorrow for your sins. The traditional prayer: "O my God, I am heartily sorry for having offended You, and I detest all my sins because of Your just punishments, but most of all because they offend You, my God, who are all good and deserving of all my love. I firmly resolve, with the help of Your grace, to sin no more and to avoid the near occasion of sin."
The priest extends his hand and prays the prayer of absolution. As he says the final words — "I absolve you from your sins, in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit" — your sins are forgiven. Make the Sign of the Cross and respond: "Amen."
Leave the confessional and complete your penance as soon as possible. Give thanks to God for His mercy.
Watch a guided examination of conscience and receive spiritual direction before your next confession.
Prepare for Confession