Make a pilgrimage
How to confess
5. How to confess
1. Preparation
Before meeting with a priest, choose a reading from Sacred Scripture. It could be one of the readings from Mass or from a special liturgical time (Advent, Lent, Pentecost, August 15, All Saints, etc.) Meditate on the text. What does it tell me about God? How is this message calling me to change or conversion? Reflect on what you have experienced in recent weeks or since your last confession: When have there been times that you have refused to be loving; when have you separated yourself from God? Have you committed serious sin against someone? Call to mind what it is you want to confess and discuss with the priest.
2. Welcome by the priest and penitent
Introduce yourself briefly: first name, family situation, profession, involvement with the Church, how long ago was your last confession. Conclude this part with: “Bless me Father for I have sinned.” With the priest, make the Sign of the Cross.
3. Listening to the Word of God
Then tell the priest what Scripture reading you have chosen to prepare for reconciliation and what you have discovered in it to guide you more towards God. If you have not chosen a reading, the priest could suggest one, and if time permits, you can read the passage with him. (It would be good to bring a Bible with you for this.)
4. Recognizing God’s Love
Talk about and name the sins that you have become aware of with the help of the Word of God. Ask for forgiveness, for example, with the words such as: Father, I have sinned against you. I am no longer worthy to be called your child. Have pity on the sinner that I am. (Based on Luke 15:18) Or you may say an act of contrition: “My God, I am sorry for my sins with all my heart. In choosing to do wrong and failing to do good, I have sinned against you whom I should love above all things. I firmly intend, with your help, to do penance, to sin no more, and to avoid whatever leads me to sin.” The priest then says a few words, suggesting some form of conversion and penance. He may invite you to pray with him the Our Father.
5. Absolution
The priest extends his hand in blessing over you and says: “God, the Father of mercies, through the death and resurrection of his Son has reconciled the world to himself and sent the Holy Spirit among us for the forgiveness of sins; through the ministry of the Church may God give you pardon and peace, and I absolve you from your sins in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.” You respond: AMEN. The priest says: "The Lord has freed you from your sins. Go in peace," or: "Go in peace and God bless you." You respond: “Amen.” or “Thank you” or “Blessed be God forever.”