Confession is where Jesus forgives our sins through the priest.
We tell God the things we did wrong, we say sorry, and the priest says the words that mean we are forgiven. Our soul is made clean and new.
The priest can never tell anyone what we say. Not our parents, not anyone. It is a secret between us and God.
A few days before, go through the examination for children together, slowly. Let them tap what is true.
Practise the words below until they feel easy. It is fine to bring a card.
On the day, pray together before you go: "Holy Spirit, help me remember my sins and be sorry for them."
An Act of Contrition for children. O my God, I am sorry for my sins because I have offended you. I know I should love you above all things. Help me to do penance, to do better, and to avoid anything that might lead me to sin. Amen.
Do the penance straight away, while it is fresh.
Celebrate: a special meal, a small gift, a photo with the priest. It is a happy day.
Put the date in the family’s days, so it can be remembered each year.