Acts of the Penitent
From the Catechism of the Catholic Church, Simplified
Three Acts (1450)
The sinner must be contrite of heart, confess with their lips, and make fruitful satisfaction (Roman Catechism).
Two Types of Contrition (1451-1454)
The penitent's contrition (sorrow for sin and a resolution to sin no more) is the penitent's primary act.
Perfect contrition (when the penitent loves God above all else) forgives venial sins and mortal sins (when there is a firm resolve to use the sacrament of Penance as soon as possible).
Imperfect contrition (when a hatred for the sin or a fear of damnation or other penalties causes sorrow) by itself does not obtain forgiveness of sins. However, it does begin an inner process which leads the person to sacramental absolution (which completes the forgiveness).
Before confession, the penitents must examine their conscience in light of Jesus' Gospel teachings.
Telling All Mortal Sins (1455-1456)
The confession of sins facilitates reconciliation. An admission of guilt opens the door of reconciliation (to God and to others).
"All mortal sins must be told in confession, even the most secret, for these can wound the soul even more grievously than those committed openly" (Council of Trent). "By confessing their sins, they place all before divine mercy for pardon. Those who knowingly withhold some, place nothing before the divine goodness for remission by the priest. Medicine cannot heal a person who is too ashamed to tell the doctor" (Council of Trent).
Necessary Confession (1457)
Catholics have an obligation to confess serious sins at least once a year (Canon 989). Anyone aware of mortal sin must not receive Communion unless he has a grave reason for receiving and no possibility of going to confession. All must receive first confession before first Communion.
Devotional Confession (1458)
The regular confession of venial sins helps to form conscience and to fight against evil tendencies. Frequent confession helps us to be merciful as the heavenly Father is merciful (Lk 6:36). "Man is what God has made. Sinner is what man himself has made. Destroy what you have made, so God can save what he has made. The beginning of good works is the confession of evil works" (St. Augustine).
Need to Repair (1459)
Simple justice requires that the penitent repair any harm he has caused (return stolen goods, restore another's reputation, etc.). The person, to recover full spiritual health must "make satisfaction", that is, do penance.
Imposing a Penance (1460)
The confessor, therefore, must impose a penance according to the gravity of the sins and the person's situation. Through these penances (prayer, works of mercy, etc.) we become co-heirs with Christ. However, this satisfaction is not ours. Only in Christ can we "bring forth fruits that befit repentance. These fruits have their efficacy from him" (Council of Trent).
Five riveting true stories by people who have experienced supernatural Warnings. order »
Join the movement! Pray 12 minutes a day to help God save America. order »
Find friends in the world's largest directory of Catholic young adult groups. Learn More »
Our supporters have distributed tens of millions of life-changing Catholic gifts since 1991, making us America's largest producer of high-quality, super-affordable tools for evangelization. Join our work today!
See All Our Catholic Materials
Meet Bud Macfarlane, Our Founder
