Seek to have the grace of “perfect contrition” (see below) …and intend to get there as soon as you can…(but of course if one has committed mortal sin…one needs to wait til after confession for Holy Communion) (God can find ways…and give grace even in our last moments…in ways he knows…but of course we do not presume on such…)
(perhaps even catch the Priest another time or after Mass etc…and go…)
Catechism of the Catholic Church:
1452 When it arises from a love by which God is loved above all else, contrition is called “perfect” (contrition of charity). Such contrition remits venial sins; it also obtains forgiveness of mortal sins if it includes the firm resolution to have recourse to sacramental confession as soon as possible.51
1453 The contrition called “imperfect” (or “attrition”) is also a gift of God, a prompting of the Holy Spirit. It is born of the consideration of sin’s ugliness or the fear of eternal damnation and the other penalties threatening the sinner (contrition of fear). Such a stirring of conscience can initiate an interior process which, under the prompting of grace, will be brought to completion by sacramental absolution. By itself however, imperfect contrition cannot obtain the forgiveness of grave sins, but it disposes one to obtain forgiveness in the sacrament of Penance.52
(remember too…that it is possible for one to still have “fear of hell etc” and have primarily perfect contrition out of love…)
Jesus the Good Shepherd loves you
