1. Begin by saying, "Bless me, Father, for I have sinned. It has been [this duration] since my last Confession."
2. Confide in the priest about your transgressions. The priest is your guide and may pose inquiries to assist you in navigating the sacrament.
3. Pay heed to the guidance and penance provided by the priest. If you encounter difficulties or are unable to fulfill the assigned penance, communicate this to the priest.
4. Offer an act of contrition in prayer. If not instructed by the priest, you can recite it privately. Sample acts of contrition can be found below.
5. Receive absolution. As the priest utters the prayer of absolution, you are bestowed with blessings that absolve you of your sins. He may conclude the Confession with the words, “Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good.” The response is, “His mercy endures forever.”
6. Fulfill your penance. If immediate compliance isn't possible, ensure to complete your penance at the earliest convenience.
Example 1:
"Oh my God, I am heartily sorry for having offended You, 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 You, my God, who are all good and deserving of all my love. I firmly resolve, with the help of Your grace, to confess my sins, to do penance, and to amend my life. Amen."
Example 2:
"Lord Jesus, Son of God, have mercy on me, a sinner. I repent of my sins and turn to You for forgiveness. I am truly sorry for the wrongs I have done, and I ask for Your mercy and grace. Help me to change my ways and to live according to Your will. I trust in Your love and seek Your guidance in all that I do. Amen."
Feel free to choose the one that resonates with you, or you can also find other variations that reflect your sincere contrition.