In light of the current emergency situation where close contact is a serious danger, you are reminded that the church teaches that when it is not reasonably possible to use the normal form of confession, the forgiveness of sins is obtained by an sincere act of contrition with the intention of making an individual confession of serious sins as soon as doing so becomes reasonably possible.

The Catechism of the Catholic Church, N. 1452, says: “When it arises from a love by which God is loved above all else, contrition is called ‘perfect’ — contrition of charity. Such contrition remits venial sins; it also obtains forgiveness of mortal sins if it includes the firm resolution to have recourse to sacramental confession as soon as possible.”

A Guide for Going to Confession

If it has been awhile since you have been to confession, simply tell the priest and he will help guide you through it.  Always remember: God is eager to forgive our sins.

Before going to confession examine your concience.  

How to go to Confession:

• Make the Sign of the Cross and tell the priest approximately how long it has been since your last confession ("Bless me Father for I have sinned.  It has been ____  (weeks/months/years) since my last confession.")

• Confess the sins you remember.  It is best to start with the ones most difficult to say.  Indicate the kind and frequency of the sin.  You can conclude by saying "I am sorry for these and all of my sins."

• The priest will give you a penance (usually some prayers to say after the confession.)

• Say an Act of Contrition, such as

         
"Jesus, be merciful to me, a sinner."  
                         
 or

"Oh my God, I am heartly sorry for having offended you and I detest all of my sins because of your just punishment, but most of all because they offend you, my God, who are all good and deserving of all of my love. I firmly resolve, with the help of your grace, to sin no more, and to avoid the near occasions of sin.  Amen"

• Listen to the words of Absolution.

• If the priest says "Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good." Respond, "His Mercy endures forever."

After Confession say the penance the priest gave you and be at peace, your sins are forgiven!