For those returning after years away or coming for the first time
You are welcome here
God's mercy is bigger than any sin. Jesus welcomes sinners - this is exactly why Confession exists. You are not an interruption or burden.
What you need to know
Sin = choosing against God's love, hurting our relationship with Him and others
Mortal sin = serious choice against God, done knowingly and freely
- Breaks friendship with God
- Should be confessed before Holy Communion
- Say what it was and roughly how often
Venial sin = lesser failures that wound but don't break friendship with God
Going to Confession (5 simple steps)
- Enter and say: "Bless me, Father, for I have sinned. It has been [time] since my last confession."
- Tell your sins simply and honestly. For serious sins, say what and roughly how often.
- Listen to any advice and receive your penance (usually a prayer).
- Pray an Act of Contrition (the priest will help if you don't know one).
- Receive absolution - God forgives you through the priest's words.
The priest can never tell anyone what you confess - ever.
Quick examination
Ask yourself:
- How have I failed to love God?
- How have I failed to love others?
- What patterns keep pulling me away from Christ?
Common serious matters to confess:
- Deliberately missing Sunday Mass without good reason
- Sexual activity outside marriage
- Serious dishonesty or theft
- Hatred or serious harm to others
- Pornography use
- Abortion or helping with it
Don't forget:
- Kindness withheld
- Prayers neglected
- Gossip or lies
- Selfishness with time or money
Act of Contrition
"My God, I am sorry for my sins with all my heart. I firmly intend, with Your help, to sin no more and avoid whatever leads me to sin. Have mercy on me. Amen."
What happens next?
- Do your penance soon after
- Return to Holy Communion with joy
- Come regularly - monthly is good for spiritual health
Need more help? Speak to our priest - he's here to help, not judge. For a fuller Examination of Conscience guide see here: https://ourladymbro.org/examination-of-conscience/
Confession times: See parish newsletter or call to arrange an appointment.