Reception of the Penitent

The penitent is welcomed with kindness and together the sign of the Cross is made. The confessor may pray a prayer.

Reading of the Word of God (optional)

The confessor may read or say from memory a text from Sacred Scripture. Penitents are encouraged to bring a text that has great meaning for them.

Confession of Sins and Acceptance of Satisfaction

The penitent then asks forgiveness for sins committed since their last confession. If necessary, the confessor will help and perhaps give suitable counsel. After the confession of sins, the confessor will propose an act of penance which the penitent accepts.

Prayer of the Penitent and Absolution

The confessor then asks the penitent to express sorrow. This may be in word (act of contrition) rote or in your own words, or in action (kneeling for absolution). The confessor will then pray the words of absolution and lay hands over you.

Proclamation of Praise of God and Dismissal

After the prayer of Absolution, the confessor continues:

Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good.

The penitent concludes:

His mercy endures forever.

Then the confessor dismisses the penitent who has been reconciled, saying:

The Lord has freed you from your sins. Go in peace.