For those in mortal sin, getting to Confession is all-important; even for those who have committed venial sins, it is a priceless spiritual aid. People sometimes complain, justifiably, that parish Confession times are far too brief. Those that offer Confession before every Mass are wonderful models. But for so crucial a sacrament, nobody should feel awkward about approaching a priest.
There are many examinations of conscience available online, and – perhaps more reliably – in print. The CTS’s Simple Prayer Book contains a helpful guide (see ctsbooks.org). Some write down their sins for the sake of memory – though this isn’t recommended for those at risk of scrupulosity.
