How to go to Confession

You may go to confession behind a screen or you may sit in the chair and speak to the priest face to face, which is the preferred method.

After the priest greets you, make the sign of the cross. The Priest may choose to recite a reading from Scripture or he may greet you and welcome you. You then simply tell him how long it has been since your last confession and begin to tell him that which you wish to confess.

Tell your sins simply and honestly to the priest. If there is something in your life that you believe leads to your actions, include that in your discussion with the priest. At this time you can ask the priest for advice should you wish to.

Listen to what the Priest says. He will give you a penance. It may be a prayer to say, or something to do. Then say an Act of Contrition (sorrow) for your sins. You may say one you have learned, or you may simply tell God in your own words that you are sorry and will not sin again. If you need or want to, you may carry one to read at this time.

The priest will then give you absolution. Some priests will dismiss you with the words of praise: "Give thanks to the Lord for He is good. You respond: "For His mercy endures forever." The priest will then conclude with: "The Lord has freed you from your sins. Go in peace." And you respond by saying: "Thanks be to God." Other priests may just conclude with the phrase, Your sins are forgiven, go in peace. You may respond, “Thanks be to God.”

Spend some time in church thanking God and praising Him for the gift of His mercy. Try to do the penance the priest gave you as soon as possible. If it was a prayer, you should stay and say that prayer before leaving.