This traditional form expresses sorrow for sin and a sincere intention to change with God’s help. Several approved forms are used; your parish may teach a different wording.
Traditional English devotional form
O my God, I am heartily sorry for having offended Thee, and I detest all my sins, because I dread the loss of heaven and the pains of hell, 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 confess my sins, to do penance, and to amend my life. Amen.
Bring it into your day
Before confession, consider what you need to acknowledge and one practical change you can make.
Prepare with the confession guide