Jesus gave his apostles the power to forgive sins on the evening of his resurrection, breathing on them and saying, “Whose soever sins ye remit, they are remitted unto them.” Every confession since is that gift being handed on. A short prayer beforehand helps you remember what you’re actually doing: not reading out a list, but coming home.
Historical Context
St John Vianney, the parish priest of Ars in France, spent up to sixteen hours a day in the confessional. People came from all over the country to see him. He said that God forgets our sins once they’re confessed, so we shouldn’t keep dragging them back up.
A Prayer Before Confession
Holy Spirit, help me see my sins clearly,
without excuses and without despair.
Give me true sorrow for them,
and the courage to name them honestly.
Jesus, you welcomed the prodigal son home.
I’m coming home too.
Mary, refuge of sinners, pray for me.
Amen.
A Short Examination of Conscience
- Have I put anything ahead of God: money, work, my phone, my own comfort?
- Have I missed Mass on Sundays without a serious reason?
- Have I been unkind, impatient or cruel to my family?
- Have I lied, gossiped or damaged someone’s reputation?
- Have I been dishonest at work, or taken what isn’t mine?
- Have I looked at things or acted in ways that disrespect my body or someone else’s?
- Is there anyone I refuse to forgive?
The Act of Contrition
O my God, I am heartily sorry for having offended thee,
and I detest all my sins because of thy just punishments,
but most of all because they offend thee, my God,
who art all good and deserving of all my love.
I firmly resolve, with the help of thy grace,
to sin no more and to avoid the near occasion of sin.
Amen.
A Prayer After Confession
Thank you, Lord. I’m forgiven.
Help me believe it, and live like it.
Amen.
Best Times for This Prayer
- While waiting in line for confession.
- Before a parish penance service in Advent or Lent.
- When you’ve been away for a long time and are thinking about going back.
Scripture Connection
“If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” — 1 John 1:9
John doesn’t say God might forgive. He says God is faithful and just to forgive. Forgiveness after confession isn’t a hope. It’s a promise.
Related prayers
For coming back to God, see Jonah’s Prayer and the Prayer to Be Born Again. For honesty with yourself, the 4th Step Prayer.