Act of Contrition (short form)

This short Act of Contrition comes from the Catholic catechetical tradition and is not attributed to a single author. It gives children and other beginners a simple way to express sorrow for sin, love of God, and a firm purpose of amendment. The Catechism describes contrition as sorrow for sin together with the resolve not to sin again (CCC 1451). This prayer is especially suitable during an examination of conscience, before sacramental confession, or at bedtime. Its petition for help recognizes that conversion depends upon God's grace as well as our willing cooperation.

When to pray it: Pray this during an examination of conscience, before confession, after committing a sin, or at the end of the day.