Guide to Confession

A Guide to the Sacrament of Reconciliation

St. Ambrose Barlow Parish

"Do not be afraid. The Lord is full of mercy and compassion,
slow to anger, and abounding in love." - Psalm 103:8

1. Before Confession

Begin with a quiet prayer, asking the Holy Spirit to help you see yourself honestly and trust in God’s mercy.

Prayer to the Holy Spirit
Come, Holy Spirit, enlighten my mind that I may know my sins, touch my heart that I may be sorry for them, and strengthen my will that I may amend my life. Amen.

Examination of Conscience

Prayerfully reflect on your actions, thoughts, and words. The Ten Commandments are a helpful guide.

  • 1st Commandment: Have I put anyone or anything before God? Neglected prayer?
  • 2nd Commandment: Have I used God’s name disrespectfully?
  • 3rd Commandment: Did I deliberately miss Mass on Sunday or a Holy Day?
  • 4th Commandment: Have I been disobedient or disrespectful to my parents or others in authority?
  • 5th Commandment: Have I caused physical or emotional harm to anyone? Held onto anger?
  • 6th Commandment: Have I been impure in my thoughts, words, or actions (e.g., pornography)?
  • 7th Commandment: Have I taken something that was not mine or been dishonest?
  • 8th Commandment: Have I lied, gossiped, or damaged someone’s reputation?
  • 9th Commandment: Have I been envious of another’s family or relationships?
  • 10th Commandment: Have I been jealous or greedy?

2. During Confession

The priest is there to help you. He is acting in the person of Christ.

  1. Begin with the Sign of the Cross.
  2. You say: “Bless me, Father, for I have sinned. It has been [time] since my last confession. These are my sins.”
  3. Confess your sins simply and honestly.
  4. Listen to the priest’s counsel and receive a penance.
  5. Pray the Act of Contrition.
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
  1. The priest will pray for Absolution. You say, "Amen."
  2. The priest will say, “Go in peace.” You respond, "Thanks be to God."

3. After Confession

Quietly thank God for the incredible gift of His forgiveness. Complete your penance as soon as possible and leave with the peace of a clean heart. 🙏