Regardless of if it’s been a week, a decade or even longer since your last Confession, this guide is for you! Follow these steps to get the most from the Sacrament of Reconciliation. Feel free to bring a copy of this guide, paper or digital, with you. No worries if you forget anything, the priest is there to journey with you through all the steps.
Examine your conscience
Before going before to confession, take a moment to reflect on how you have fallen short, harming your relationship with God, yourself, others and creation. If it helps, feel free to write your thoughts and sins down and bring notes with you to Confession.
Confess your sins
Once you’re before the priest, begin by making the sign of the cross. Then say:
Bless me, father, for I have sinned. It has been _____ (weeks/months/years) since my last confession and these are my sins.
No need to fret if you’re not exactly sure how long it’s been; your best guess is enough.
Next, confess your sins to the priest. The priest needs to know what it is you’re confessing, but it’s not necessary to give specific details. Name the sin and how often or how many times you’ve committed it.
When finished confessing, let the priest know with the words:
For these and all my sins I am truly sorry.
Receive
At this time, the priest may offer some advice or guidance to assist you on the journey to sainthood. The priest will also assign you a penance. Penance is some small act that marks the first step in your new life directed towards God.
Act of Contrition
When directed by the priest, show your sincere contrition and desire to change by praying the Act of Contrition:
My God I am sorry for my sins with all my heart.
In choosing to do wrong and failing to do good, I have sinned against You whom I should love above all things.
I firmly intend, with your help, to do penance, to sin no more, and to avoid whatever leads me to sin.
Our Saviour Jesus Christ suffered and died for us. In His name, my God, have mercy. Amen.
Absolution
Through the priest, Jesus forgives your sins and reconciles you with God. The priest will pray the Prayer of Absolution over you, to which you reply: “Amen”.
Finally
Congratulations, your sins are forgiven! Don’t forget to complete your penance as soon as possible.
