The Return of the Prodigal Son by Pompeo Batoni
How to make one’s Confession
Begin by saying:
Bless me, Father, for I have sinned.
I confess to God Almighty and to you, Father.
It has been ___________ (days, weeks, months, years) since my last confession.
Then you tell your sins. All mortal sins (type and number) must be confessed in order to make a good confession. Venial sins may be confessed, and it is a very beneficial to do so on a spiritual level. When you have finished, add:
For these and all the sins that I can’t remember, and all the sins of my past life (you can specify one or another), I ask pardon of God and penance and absolution of you, Father.
The priest then may give you some words of advice and he gives you a penance. Then you say your act of contrition.
An 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 so 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.
The priest gives the absolution. The priest may say, “Give thanks to the Lord for he is good.” Your response would be:
His mercy endures for ever
Before leaving, say to the priest:
Thank you, Father.
If you have been given a prayer as your penance, it is recommended to make your penance in the Church. You can also add a prayer for the priest at this time.
"The confession of evil works is the first beginning of good works."
--St. Augustine