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Guide to Confession

Before Confession

-Pray and Prepare-

Confession can seem intimidating for a lot of people, but with some simple preparation, it can
be a healing encounter with Christ that will leave you filled with peace.

Check out one of these two versions of the examination of conscience, one for adults and one for children, both based on the Ten Commandments.

During Confession

-How do I go to confession?-

Greeting: The priest will welcome you; he may say a short blessing or read a Scripture passage.

Sign of the Cross: Together, you and the priest will make the Sign of the Cross. You may then begin your confession with these or similar words: “Bless me, Father, for I have sinned. It has been (give weeks, months, or years) since my last confession.”

Confession: Confess all your sins to the priest. If you are unsure what to say, ask the priest for help. When you are finished, conclude with these or similar words: “I am sorry for these and all my sins.”

Penance: The priest will propose an act of penance. The penance might be prayer, a work of mercy, or an act of charity. He might also counsel you on how to better live a Christian life.

Act of Contrition: Say an Act of Contrition, expressing sorrow for your sins and resolving to leave sin behind and live more like Jesus Christ!

Absolution: The priest then blesses you in the person of Christ as he says the prayer of Absolution which frees you from your sins

After Confession

-Go in Peace-