Act of Contrition

Christian tradition has many prayers of contrition. The Act of Contrition is a prayer of humble acknowledgement of our human frailty used when we celebrate the Sacrament of Penance. It is also a wonderful prayer to use daily, especially in the late evening. Catholics are encouraged to memorize this prayer and use it often as well as when going to confession.

My God,
I am sorry for my sins with all my heart.
In choosing to do wrong and failing to do good,
I have sinned against you
whom I should love above all things.
I firmly intend, with your help,
to do penance,
to sin no more,
and to avoid whatever leads me to sin.
Our Savior Jesus Christ
suffered and died for us.
In his name,
my God, have mercy.
​Amen.