Confession
Making a good Confession
BEFORE
Most of the work of your confession can and should be done before arriving. Take some time to prayerfully go through an examination of conscience. There are many available; we've provided some promoted by United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB). Remember, these are just guides to assist you in preparation.
As you prepare, keep in mind that you must confess your mortal sins and approximately the number of times they were committed since your last confession. Remember, the only sin that God does not forgive is the one we do not give over to Him. Sins always make us uncomfortable, but worse is for them to remain chained to our hearts.
Mortal Sin
"Mortal sin destroys charity in the heart of man by a grave violation of God's law; it turns man away from God, who is his ultimate end and his beatitude, by preferring an inferior good to him" (CCC 1855).
Mortal sins involve grave matter: Gal 5:18-21, 1 Cor 6:9-10, Ten Commandments, Seven Deadly Sin, etc. They must have been committed with full consent and knowledge.
Venial Sin
"Venial sin allows charity to subsist, even though it offends and wounds it" (CCC 1855).
Venial sins are like a disease, which untreated weakens the soul to accept temptations for mortal sin, thus separating the individual from salvific grace. Venial sins must be rooted out of one's heart, as also sin places distance between us and God.
DURING
Know that as you approach this Sacrament: the priest is no judge but a dispensor of God's mercy. Fear nothing except refusing to confess a sin. It was for this very moment that Jesus died upon the cross; it was to set you free from all of your sins and to enjoy the freedom of the sons and daughters of God the Most High.
First
Choose behind the screen or face to face, depending on how you will make the best confession.
Second
Start by saying: "Bless me, Father, for I have sinned. It has been approximately (days, weeks, months, years) since my last confession.
Third
Confess your all of your mortal sins and approximately the number of times, only since your last confession unless previously unconfessed. Remember the priest rarely needs all of the background; keep it simple.
Fourth
If you do not need to request a different penance, start the Act of Contrition. If you need help, there are often aids; never hesitate to ask the priest for assistance throughout the process.
AFTER
Complete your penance as soon as possible. Offer a small prayer of thanksgiving for God's great mercy and forgiveness. Don't forget to ask to benefit from every grace that comes from this Sacrament. Seek to root out sin from your life by making a concrete resolution through planning a strategy. Rejoice in the Lord.