Returning to Confession
Returning after a long time can leave you wondering what to say, how to prepare, and where to begin. This planned seven-day journey offers a clear, prayerful path back to the Sacrament of Penance and Reconciliation, with approximately 15 minutes of reading, reflection, and prayer each day. Beginning with the father's welcome in Luke 15, we explore Christ's gift of reconciliation, the priest's ministry and the sacramental seal, an honest examination of conscience, contrition and the intention to change, how to confess remembered grave sins, absolution, penance, and making amends. The final day considers how to continue in friendship with God after confession. Each day includes an opening prayer, Scripture, a guided Catholic teaching, focused reflection questions, a personal prayer and practical resolution, a memorable takeaway, and a short comprehension quiz. You may go to confession before completing the journey if an opportunity is available. Sources: Sacred Scripture, especially Luke 15:18-20 and John 20:21-23; Catechism of the Catholic Church 1430-1433, 1441-1469, and 1480; Code of Canon Law, canons 983, 987-988, and 981.
Day 1 is open to everyone. A free account unlocks every day, saves your progress and lets you open any lesson at your own pace.
What the journey covers
- 1The Father Is Calling You Home about 15 min
- 2Why Christ Gave His Church Confession about 15 min
- 3Look Honestly at Your Life about 15 min
- 4Ask for a Contrite Heart about 15 min
- 5Speak Your Sins Simply and Honestly about 15 min
- 6Receive Absolution and Make Amends about 15 min
- 7Go in Peace and Continue Returning about 15 min
Ready to begin?
One short lesson a day is the suggested pace, but you can open any day whenever you like. Your account keeps your place.
Artwork: Illuminated initial 'D' depicting the Lord listening to confession, British Library, Add MS 42130, f. 185v (via The Mediaeval Monk).