Below is a prayer to help a person examine their conscience.

The prayer may be said before the Sacrament of Reconciliation to help one make a good confession.

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Prayer Before Confession

O Holy Spirit. Source of all light, Spirit of wisdom, of understanding, and of knowledge, come to my assistance and enable me to make a good confession. Enlighten me, and help me now to know my sins as one day I shall be forced to recognize them before Thy judgment seat. Bring to my mind the evil which I have done and the good which I have neglected. Permit me not to be blinded by self-love. Grant me, moreover, heartfelt sorrow for my transgressions, and the grace of a sincere confession, so that I may be forgiven and admitted into Thy friendship. Amen.

Holy Mary, pray for me!

St. Joseph, pray for me!

Guardian Angel, help me to make a good confession!