Act of Contrition
The traditional prayer of sorrow for sins, prayed in the Sacrament of Reconciliation and for personal repentance.
The Act of Contrition is the traditional prayer of sorrow for sins, prayed in the Sacrament of Reconciliation and in personal repentance. It says, in a few lines, that you are sorry because you have offended a good God, that you resolve to sin no more and that you trust his mercy. Many Catholics learned it as children, and it remains the shortest route back to peace of heart. It is also prayed at night when you have failed and want to start fresh.
Pray this prayer, and save your favourites, in the Sacred Novenas app
Open in the app App StoreGoogle PlayAct 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 occasions of sin. Amen.
Frequently asked questions
When should I pray the Act of Contrition?
Pray it at the end of confession, at night, and whenever you have fallen.
How do I pray the Act of Contrition?
Say it slowly and mean each phrase, then make a small amends if you can.
Who is the Act of Contrition for?
All Catholics, children preparing for First Confession and anyone seeking forgiveness.
Pray this prayer, and save your favourites, in the Sacred Novenas app
Open in the app App StoreGoogle Play