Penance can consist of 

1. prayer, 

2. fasting, 

3. almsgiving, 

4. works of mercy, 

5. service to others, 

6. voluntary self-denial, and 

7. sacrifices. 

But above all the patient acceptance of the cross we must bear is the most powerful penance to offer for the conversion of sinners. 

What we did not choose, do not like, and cannot change are the very things we should accept as from the hand of God and offer them up. 

Unite them to the suffering of Jesus and do it for the conversion of sinners.  

As Mother Teresa would say, “Give what He takes and take what He gives with a big smile.”