Is the Act of Contrition still a part of Confession?

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barbfromtucson

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Hi,

For awhile, I had been going to those communal penance services, where they have the act of contrition sort of ‘built in’.

I’ve gotten away from the communal services, and have been going to the individual, face-to-face confession, but have noticed that, regardless of which priest I’ve gone to, he does not have me recite the Act of Contrition.

As soon as I realized this was happening, I now will just go into it when I’m finished with my rap sheet/laundry list.

But is this a norm now? If I’m truly sorry for the sins, but don’t state the act of contrition, is it still a valid confession?

Thanks much,

Barbara
 
Hi Barbara,

When the penitent finishes confessing his or her sins, the priest is to give a penance and then invite the person to make an act of contrition. He then gives the person absolution. This is what is prescribed. So your expectations are correct and the priests have been remiss.

Fr. Vincent Serpa, O.P.
 
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