Confession
The Sacrament of Penance and Reconciliation forgives our sins, reunites us with God, and strengthens our souls. God the Father never tires of giving us His mercy.
Receive the Holy Spirit. If you forgive the sins of any, they are forgiven.John 20:22–23
Confession times
- 30 minutes before every Mass (except Fridays)
- Saturdays, 10 – 11:45 AM
Come home to the Father
Like the prodigal son, we are always welcomed back with open arms.
How to go to Confession
Nervous or out of practice? Don’t worry. The priest will gladly help you through it.
Making a good confession
- 1Examine your conscience beforehand. The guides below can help.
- 2Begin with the Sign of the Cross: “Bless me, Father, for I have sinned. It has been [time] since my last confession.”
- 3Confess your sins honestly, especially any serious sins and about how often.
- 4Listen to the priest’s counsel and accept your penance.
- 5Pray an Act of Contrition, then receive absolution.
- 6Do your penance soon afterward, and give thanks to God.
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.
Any sincere act of sorrow in your own words is also fine.
Examinations of conscience
These guides will help you prepare to make a complete confession.
Common questions
It’s been a long time
You are welcome! Just tell the priest it’s been a while, and he will help you. There is no need to be afraid.
How often should I go?
At least once a year, and always before Communion if you are aware of serious sin. Frequent confession is warmly recommended.
Is it confidential?
Yes. The seal of confession is absolute: a priest may never reveal your sins to anyone, for any reason, even at the cost of his life.
Come back to Confession
Mercy is offered every week at St. Ann’s.