What should I say at the beginning and end of Confession?

[englishredrose]

on our prompt cards the priest says something like, pray for me a sinner too…

 

[Joe_Kelley]

I remember something about it not being required to say an act of contrition in the confessional. My Priest usually mentions you to say it. Actually, in preparation for your confession you have no doubt , beforhand, asked God for forgiveness in sorrow and contrition and always after leaving the confessional. Peace, Carlan

I read someplace that the Act of Contrition is not necessary. However, it is necessary that the Penitent be contrite, and the Act assures the Confessor of this.

 

[Vico]

I read someplace that the Act of Contrition is not necessary. However, it is necessary that the Penitent be contrite, and the Act assures the Confessor of this.

Two Latin canons shed some light:

CIC Can. 980 If the confessor has no doubt about the disposition of the penitent, and the penitent seeks absolution, absolution is to be neither refused nor deferred.

CIC Can. 981 The confessor is to impose salutary and suitable penances in accord with the quality and number of sins, taking into account the condition of the penitent. The penitent is obliged to fulfill these personally.