Oh my God,
I am heartily sorry for having offended thee.
I detest all my sins because of your just punishments,
but most of all because they offend thee, my God,
Who art all good and deserving of all my love.
I firmly resolve, with the help of Thy grace,
to sin no more, and to avoid the near occasion of sin.
Amen.
The emergence of Act of Contrition # 10
The Act of Contrition #10 is a Catholic prayer traditionally recited during the Sacrament of Confession. The origins of this prayer are not well documented, but it is believed to have emerged in the late 19th or early 20th century.
Some historians suggest that the Act of Contrition #10 grew out of a need for a more personal and meaningful form of contrition, particularly as private confession became more common in the Church. This prayer emphasizes the penitent’s love for God as the motivation for sorrow and repentance.
The Act of Contrition #10 is sometimes referred to as the “Perfect Act of Contrition,” as it expresses sorrow for sin out of love for God rather than fear of punishment. It is particularly appropriate for use when one is unable to go to confession or is in danger of death.
The prayer is short and simple, consisting of only a few lines. Nevertheless, it has become one of the most beloved prayers in the Catholic tradition, offering comfort and reassurance to the faithful in times of trouble and uncertainty.
Like other prayers in the Catholic tradition, the Act of Contrition #10 has undergone various translations and variations over time. Nevertheless, its essential message of contrition and love for God remains a powerful source of spiritual guidance and renewal for millions of Catholics around the world.