Prayers Before Confession

While the Novus Ordo (New Rite) does not specifically prescribe any prayers prior to confession, it is strongly recommended that for a deep and meaningful confession the penitent spend time in contemplation, devotion, praying the rosary, or following the Prayers Before Confession for the Traditional Latin Rite Confession prior to proceeding to the Examination of Conscience.

Confession is an act of honesty and courage – an act of entrusting ourselves, beyond sin, to the mercy of a loving and forgiving God. The two sacraments of the Eucharist and Penance are very closely connected.
— St John Paul II.