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Jesus' call to conversion and penance, like that of the prophets before him,
does not aim at outward works, "sackcloth and ashes," fasting and mortification,
but at the conversion of the heart, interior conversion.
CCC#1430
Prayer of the Penitent
(Ps 25 [24]:6-7)
Remember, Lord, the compassion and mercy you showed long ago.
Do not recall my sins and failings.
In your mercy remember me, Lord, because of your goodness.
(Ps 51 [50]:4-5)
Wash me, O Lord, from my iniquity and cleanse me from my sin.
I acknowledge my offense; my sin is before me always
(Lk 15:18; 18:13)
Father, I have sinned against you
and I am not worthy to be called your son.
Be merciful to me, a sinner.
The Sacrament of Reconciliation
Examination of Conscience
Acts of Contrition