An Act Of Contrition Poem by Dr John Celes

Forgive me God, I've sinned against heaven
From ever since I got my reasoning power;
And though I promised you to give up sin,
I fell repeatedly in devil's snares.

O God of mercy infinite, and love!
I know my trespasses have hurt your Son;
My faults have also nailed Him on the cross;
I am ashamed of all misdeeds I did.

I fell a victim to the tempter's baits;
May be, I could have lived aright always;
I was enslaved in sinful joy all life;
I did not heed my conscience at times.

Forgive me God for all my follies done;
You are the God of gentiles and Christians;
Your heart forgives all truly contrite hearts;
You love each soul you made with immense love.

O Lord of human race and creation!
Do fill my heart with much remorse for sins;
Show me how to repent and keep Thy will;
Give me the chance to make up for each fault.

Ignore my sins; help me carry my cross;
I'm heartily sorry for every sin;
Open your heart of love, forgive me God,
And take me to thy holy place some day.
Amen.