Penance

Interior penance is a radical reorientation of our whole life, a return, a conversion to God with all our heart, an end of sin, a turning away from evil, with repugnance toward the evil actions we have committed (CCC 1431). It is also the name of the sacrament of Reconciliation (CCC 1422-1424).

Forms of Penance

Scripture and the Fathers insist above all on three forms of penance: fasting, prayer, and almsgiving, which express conversion in relation to oneself, to God, and to others (CCC 1434).

Frequently Asked Questions

Why do we need to do penance if God forgives us? While God forgives the guilt of sin, penance is necessary to heal the wounds that sin has inflicted on ourselves and others, and to re-establish the right order of charity (CCC 1459-1460).