Prayer before Confession: O Lord, grant me light of your Holy Spirit to see myself as you see me, and the grace to be truly and effectively sorry for my sins. O Mary, help me to make a good confession.

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How to Confess: First, examine your conscience well, then tell the priest the specific kind of sins you have committed and, to the best of your ability, how many times you have committed them since your last good confession. You are obliged to confess only mortal sins, since you can obtain forgiveness for your venial sins by sacrifices and acts of charity. If you are in doubt about whether a sin is mortal or venial, mention your doubt to the confessor. Remember also, confession of venial sins is very helpful for avoiding sin and advancing toward Heaven.