Prayer to Jesus for Forgiveness

"If we would only ask God’s pardon for our faults, with true sorrow, we would always find Him rich in mercy." — St. Alphonsus Liguori

Public Domain: The return of the prodigal son. Drawing by F. Rosaspina, c. 1830, after L. Massari. via The Wellcome Collection.

The Prayer

My Lord Jesus Christ, You have made this journey to die for me with love unutterable, and I have so many times unworthily abandoned You; but now I love You with my whole heart, and because I love You, I repent sincerely for ever having offended You. Pardon me, my God, and permit me to accompany You on this journey. You go to die for love of me; I wish also, my beloved Redeemer, to die for love of You.

About This Prayer

This moving prayer by St. Alphonsus Liguori is a heartfelt prayer for repentance and a deep expression of love for Christ. It reflects sorrow for sin and the desire to remain united with Jesus in His Passion. Traditionally prayed during the Stations of the Cross or in moments of personal reflection, it helps the faithful enter into the mystery of Christ’s sacrifice and renew their commitment to follow Him with fidelity.

When To Pray

The Prayer to Jesus for Forgiveness is often prayed during Lent, especially on Fridays or while meditating on the Passion of Christ. It is fitting before or after Confession (also see Act of Contrition), during the Stations of the Cross, or at any time you feel the need to turn back to God with a contrite heart. Many also use it as part of personal evening prayer when reviewing the day in light of Christ’s love and mercy.