PENITENCE

If we confess our sins, He who is faithful and just, will forgive us our sins and cleanse us from all unrighteousness. (I John 1:9)

Penitence is a sacrament, in which a person, who confesses his sins, receives forgiveness from the priest being invisibly released from his sins by the Lord Jesus Christ Himself.

The penitent realizes his sins and repents for them, confessing them before God and the Church. The penitent is asked to have the intention to rectify his life, have faith in Christ and hope for His mercy.

During the confession the penitent reads a special supplication, in which all the possible sins are enumerated. He should make a true and heartfelt confession from his heart.

Those who want to receive this sacrament prepare themselves by fasting, abstinence and prayer.