At the close of a two-day formation seminar in Rome on 24 October 2026, Bishop Krzysztof Józef Nykiel, Regent of the Apostolic Penitentiary, offered four practical ways to approach the Sacrament of Reconciliation. His message emphasised mercy, honesty, reparation and lasting conversion.
Begin with mercy, not fear
According to Vatican News, Bishop Nykiel urged participants to begin an examination of conscience by considering God’s love rather than simply compiling a list of faults. Contrition, he explained, should open a person to forgiveness rather than trap them in shame.
Name sins honestly
The second step is to recognise particular wrongs truthfully, moving beyond a vague feeling of guilt. This calls for personal responsibility without treating confession as an exercise in self-condemnation.
Make amends and keep growing
Third, penitents should allow reconciliation to shape their conduct by seeking to repair harm to others and their communities wherever possible. Fourth, they should cultivate a conscience attentive to God’s Word, avoiding judgement of others and being ready to begin again.
The guidance was delivered at the conclusion of an Apostolic Penitentiary seminar held on 23–24 October, focused on the biblical, theological and spiritual foundations of contrition. For young Catholics preparing for confession, the four points provide an accessible framework for reflection.
Sources
Vatican News, 24 October 2026; Vatican News interview, 23 October 2026.
