The Act of Contrition

Updated October 15, 2026

O my God, I am heartily sorry for having offended Thee, and I detest all my sins because of Thy just punishments, but most of all because they offend Thee, my God, who art all good and deserving of all my love. I firmly resolve, with the help of Thy grace, to sin no more and to avoid the near occasion of sin. Amen.

Traditional version from the Baltimore Catechism. Other approved versions exist; any prayer of true sorrow works in Confession.

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Key takeaways

It expresses sorrow for sin and a resolve to change.
Catholics pray it in Confession after the priest gives a penance.
It is also a good nightly prayer after an examination of conscience.

What is the Act of Contrition?

The Act of Contrition is a short prayer that says you are sorry for your sins and want to do better. The Church teaches that contrition is "sorrow of the soul and detestation for the sin committed, together with the resolution not to sin again" (CCC 1451). There is no single required wording.

When to pray it

Catholics say it during the sacrament of Reconciliation, usually after confessing their sins and receiving a penance. Many also pray it at bedtime, and in emergencies when a priest is not available.

Perfect and imperfect contrition

Perfect contrition comes from love of God. Imperfect contrition comes from fear of punishment or the ugliness of sin. This prayer names both: "because of Thy just punishments, but most of all because they offend Thee." Both are enough for the sacrament (CCC 1452-1453).

I firmly resolve to sin no more

Real sorrow includes a decision to change. Catholics rely on God's grace to keep it, not on willpower alone.

Questions people ask

Do I have to use these exact words?

No. The priest does not require a set text. Many Catholics use another version or their own words, as long as they express sorrow and a resolve to change.

When is the Act of Contrition said in Confession?

After you confess your sins and the priest gives you a penance. He then gives absolution.

Is perfect contrition enough to forgive mortal sin?

The Catechism says perfect contrition obtains forgiveness of venial sins, and also of mortal sins if it includes a firm resolve to go to sacramental Confession as soon as possible (CCC 1452).

What is the "near occasion of sin"?

It means any person, place or situation that easily leads you into sin. The prayer asks God's help to stay away from them.

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Sources: Catechism of the Catholic Church 1450-1460 · Baltimore Catechism · USCCB