How to Go to Confession
A step-by-step guide to the Sacrament of Reconciliation. Whether it's your first time or you're returning after years, this guide will help you.
“Be not afraid. God loves you, is waiting for you, and will forgive you if you go to Him with a sincere heart.”
— Pope Francis
Examine Your Conscience
Before entering the confessional, spend time in prayer reflecting on your sins since your last confession. Use the Ten Commandments, the Beatitudes, or an examination of conscience guide to help you recall your sins honestly. Ask the Holy Spirit to help you see clearly.
Use our Examination of Conscience guideEnter the Confessional
You may confess face-to-face or behind a screen — the choice is yours. When the priest is ready, he will greet you. You begin with the Sign of the Cross.
Begin Your Confession
Say: "Bless me, Father, for I have sinned. It has been [length of time] since my last confession." If this is your first confession, say so. Then confess your sins clearly and honestly. You do not need to go into excessive detail — state the sin and, for serious sins, approximately how often.
Listen to the Priest
The priest may offer counsel, ask clarifying questions, or give you encouragement. He will then assign a penance — usually prayers or an act of charity. This is not punishment but medicine for the soul.
Pray the Act of Contrition
The priest will ask you to pray an Act of Contrition. You can use the traditional version or speak sincerely from your heart. The key is genuine sorrow for your sins and a firm purpose of amendment.
Act of Contrition
O my God, I am heartily sorry for having offended Thee, and I detest all my sins because I dread the loss of heaven and the pains of hell; 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 confess my sins, to do penance, and to amend my life. Amen.
Receive Absolution
The priest will extend his hands and pray the prayer of absolution. As he says the words of absolution, make the Sign of the Cross. Your sins are forgiven. The priest will say: "Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good." You respond: "His mercy endures forever."
Complete Your Penance
After leaving the confessional, complete the penance the priest assigned as soon as possible. Spend a moment in thanksgiving — you have just received one of the greatest gifts available to us. Your soul has been restored to grace.
Common Questions
How often should I go?
The Church requires confession at least once a year if you are in a state of mortal sin. Many Catholics go monthly. Saints often went weekly.
What if I forget a sin?
Forgotten sins are forgiven in a valid confession. If you remember later, mention it at your next confession.
What if it's been years?
The priest has heard it all before and will be happy to welcome you back. Simply tell him how long it has been. He will help you.
Is the priest allowed to tell anyone?
Never. The seal of confession is absolute and inviolable. A priest may never reveal what he hears in confession, under any circumstance, even under threat of death.