what are the most appropriate penances for severe mortal sins? I just committed the worst sin of my entire life even though I know I shouldn't have done it. Things are getting out of hand. I was taking a cold shower every day and I still committed the sin. Now I am considering taking a cold shower every day for the rest of my life to make up for it. What else could I do? I will go to confession but I doubt very much I have perfect contrition right now. Pretty much I know I'm damned so I will go to confession but I really fear this whole process will continue.