The concept of sin can be defined as a violation of personal integrity, harmony. Whatever views you hold, whatever religion you profess, violating moral laws, you primarily harm yourself. If you are tormented by the knowledge that you have committed sin and are wondering how to atone for the sin of fornication, try not to despair. Consider whose advice will be authoritative for you, and then follow it to find your peace of mind again.
Instructions
Step 1
Before resorting to the help of authorities, determine for yourself what the essence of your sin is. Be clear about what you are doing that is now causing the feeling of guilt. Answer the following questions: “Who else, besides yourself, did your actions harm?”, “How could this be avoided?”, “What needs to be done in the future so that the mistake does not happen again?”. Write your answers down on paper to avoid vague wording. Such an analysis is important in order to understand the situation and outline ways to correct it. You can burn the paper as an act of "forgiving yourself."
Step 2
Confess in the church, repent and receive the grace of absolution from a priest if you were brought up in the Catholic faith. Pray, read the Holy Scriptures and the lives of the saints. You must be willing to avoid repeating sin in later life.
Step 3
Pray to the Lord, the Mother of God, read the akathist "Protection" if you were brought up in the Orthodox faith. It is necessary to bring repentance in the church through the priest. Church canons distinguish between fornication and adultery. For fornication, they are excommunicated from Communion up to 7 years, and for adultery - up to 12. Do not look for compassionate priests who will give penance for two weeks and are already pushing you to Communion.
Step 4
Refer to the Koran, go to the mosque if your religion is Islam. A voluntary sin is unforgivable for you. You need to repent and do many good deeds so that on the Day of Last Judgment your good deeds can “outweigh” your sin.
Step 5
Look for other authorities if you are a follower of a different faith. Seek help from a psychologist if this suits you best. Perhaps you need to talk to someone close to you who can understand and support so that you do not despair. The Buddha is credited with the words: "Everyone is his own refuge, who else can be a refuge?" But clarity is needed to continue on your way.
