What the Church teaches
“Those who approach the sacrament of Penance obtain pardon from God's mercy for the offense committed against him, and are, at the same time, reconciled with the Church which they have wounded by their sins and which by charity, by example, and by prayer labors for their conversion.”
Once they reach the age of discretion, the faithful must confess their serious sins at least once a year.
Confessing everyday faults is not strictly necessary but is strongly recommended: it helps us form our conscience, fight bad habits and grow in the life of the Spirit.
A priest who hears confessions is bound to absolute secrecy about the sins confessed to him. This sacramental seal admits no exceptions.
John 20:22-23 The risen Jesus breathes on the apostles and gives them power to forgive sins.
Luke 15:11-32 The parable of the prodigal son and the father who runs out to welcome him home.
1 John 1:9 When we confess our sins, God, who is faithful and just, forgives us.
Catechism §1422 · Catechism §1457 · Catechism §1458 · Catechism §1467 · John 20:22-23 · Luke 15:11-32 · 1 John 1:9
How to go to Confession
If it has been a long time, do not worry. Tell the priest and he will help you through it.
Step by step
- Prepare: Pray to the Holy Spirit and examine your conscience. The questions below can help.
- Begin: Make the sign of the cross and say: Bless me, Father, for I have sinned. It has been (how long) since my last confession.
- Confess: Tell your sins simply and honestly. Confess serious sins by kind and, as far as you can, by number.
- Listen: The priest may offer a word of advice and will give you a penance, such as a prayer or a good deed.
- Pray: Say an act of contrition, such as the one below.
- Receive absolution: The priest says the words of absolution. Answer: Amen.
- Go in peace: Thank God, and do your penance soon.
An examination of conscience
- Have I put God first in my life? Have I prayed every day?
- Have I consulted native doctors, fortune tellers or charms, or trusted in anything superstitious?
- Have I used the name of God carelessly, or sworn falsely?
- Have I missed Sunday Mass or a holy day of obligation through my own fault?
- Have I honoured and helped my parents, and cared for my family?
- Have I been angry, violent or unforgiving? Have I harmed anyone in body or in reputation?
- Have I been faithful and pure in thought, word and action, and respected my body and the bodies of others?
- Have I stolen, cheated, taken or given bribes, or failed to pay what I owe?
- Have I lied, gossiped, or damaged anyone's good name?
- Have I been envious or greedy for what belongs to others?
- Have I received Holy Communion knowing I was in serious sin?
Act of contrition
O my God, because you are so good, I am very sorry that I have sinned against you, and by the help of your grace I will not sin again. Amen.
What is needed
No paperwork is needed. Any Catholic may go to Confession at the times below, or ask a priest for another time.
Requirements
- A baptised Catholic. Children make their first confession before their First Holy Communion.
- Take a few minutes beforehand to examine your conscience.
- Be sorry for your sins and intend, with God's help, not to sin again.
- You may always confess anonymously behind a screen, or face to face if you prefer.
Questions people ask
How often should I go?
At least once a year, and before receiving Holy Communion if you are aware of serious sin (CCC 1457). Many people find that going once a month is a great help.
Will the priest tell anyone what I said?
Never. The seal of Confession binds the priest to absolute secrecy, without exception (CCC 1467).
I have forgotten how to confess.
Tell the priest. He will guide you through it.
What if I forget a sin?
Sins you honestly forget are forgiven with the others. If you remember a serious sin later, mention it at your next confession.
Can I confess in my own language?
Ask at the parish office which priests hear confessions in English and in the local languages.