A Catholic Examination of Conscience

18-24 Separated Woman

In preparing for confession, please read through the examination questions and explanations thoughtfully, reflecting on each point and honestly identifying where you've fallen short of God's call in your life. You may click and remove any irrelevant ones as you proceed. Take mental note of any serious sins that require confession, focusing on being thorough but not scrupulous, then use these insights to make a complete and sincere confession to your priest.

Updated: December 3, 2024

Read Time: 15 minutes

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Disobedience

Was I disobedient to my parents by consistently going against their counsel when it conflicted with my own desires or plans?

As per the fourth commandment, it's a child's duty to respond to parental love, wisdom, and respect with obedience.

Was I disobedient to my parents by refusing to respect their wishes, even when they were reasonable?

As per the fourth commandment, it's a child's duty to respond to parental love, wisdom, and respect with obedience.

Was I disobedient to my authority figures, such as parents or guardians, when I prioritized my own desires over their guidance and expectations?

As per the fourth commandment, it's a child's duty to respond to parental love, wisdom, and respect with obedience.

Have you rejected the unity of the Church in your thoughts when frustrated with individuals who hold different views or perspectives?

Rejecting Church unity due to frustration with individuals is sinful because it confuses the Church's divine nature and eternal truths with the human imperfections of its members, while also violating Christ's prayer "that they may all be one."

Did you deliberately skip a fast during days when it was obligatory, such as Ash Wednesday?

This is considered sinful because deliberately disregarding prescribed days of fasting represents disobedience to Church authority and fails to honor our spiritual obligation to practice self-denial and penance during sacred times.

Did you mock the Church?

Mocking the church shows contempt for Christ's established institution on earth, disrespects the Body of Christ, and undermines the Church's divine authority as guided by the Holy Spirit.

Did I use my words to ridicule or scorn the Church?

Mocking the church shows contempt for Christ's established institution on earth, disrespects the Body of Christ, and undermines the Church's divine authority as guided by the Holy Spirit.

Have I shown disrespect to my mother through my actions and attitudes?

Respecting parental authority helps maintain proper order in families and society, and that parents deserve honor for their role in giving life, nurturing, and forming their children in faith and virtue.

Have I disobeyed my mother and father through my words, actions, and attitudes?

Respecting parental authority helps maintain proper order in families and society, and that parents deserve honor for their role in giving life, nurturing, and forming their children in faith and virtue.

Have I shown disrespect to my mother through my actions and attitudes, by prioritizing my own desires over her guidance and wisdom?

Respecting parental authority helps maintain proper order in families and society, and that parents deserve honor for their role in giving life, nurturing, and forming their children in faith and virtue.

Condoning

Did I, through my words, lead other Catholics astray from receiving Sacraments or participating in Mass?

One of the spiritual works of mercy is to admonish the sinner and to correct them out of love and charity instead of condoning sin.

Did I ever discourage fellow Catholics from receiving Sacraments by my words?

One of the spiritual works of mercy is to admonish the sinner and to correct them out of love and charity instead of condoning sin.

Did I fail to correct others in their absence from Sacraments or Mass?

One of the spiritual works of mercy is to admonish the sinner and to correct them out of love and charity instead of condoning sin.

Did I condone a funeral where human remains were not properly laid to rest?

Failing to advocate for proper burial of human remains is considered sinful as the Church teaches that the body is sacred and deserves reverent burial, with scattering or keeping remains being contrary to the dignity of the human body and resurrection belief.

Did I permit my child to be exposed to bad influences?

Parents have to protect their children's well-being, guarding them from harmful elements that could damage their faith or lead them into sin.

Did I permit my child to be exposed to bad influences in ways that could damage their faith?

Parents have to protect their children's well-being, guarding them from harmful elements that could damage their faith or lead them into sin.

Did I permit my child to be exposed to bad influences, possibly through their social media use, peer pressure, or exposure to unwholesome content?

Parents have to protect their children's well-being, guarding them from harmful elements that could damage their faith or lead them into sin.

Did I give approval by words for another Catholic to be married outside the church?

Marriage is a sacrament within the Catholic faith and thus giving approval and not admonishing the action gives scandal by condoning.

Did I give approval by word to a fellow Catholic who married outside the Church?

Marriage is a sacrament within the Catholic faith and thus giving approval and not admonishing the action gives scandal by condoning.

Did I allow my work habits to disrupt others' rest on a Sunday when it otherwise could have been avoided?

It's irreverent to work on a Sunday as it's a holy day of rest, worship, and a day of protest against the servitude of work and the worship of money (CCC).

Did I publicly endorse or justify abortion through my words, either directly or indirectly?

It's sinful to condone sinful behavior and fail to admonish such sinful actions, especially a grave act that would take a life.

Scandal

Did I forgo a valid Catholic marriage, thereby causing scandal to others?

For Catholics, marriage is sacramental and needs to occur in the Church or receive a dispensation if either people are not Catholic.

Did I try to lead someone else into doing something sinful?

Leading others to sin (also called "scandal") is sinful because it actively harms another person's soul by encouraging them away from God, making you spiritually responsible both for your own sin and for potentially damaging another's relationship with God.

Did I try to lead someone to sin through my actions?

Leading others to sin (also called "scandal") is sinful because it actively harms another person's soul by encouraging them away from God, making you spiritually responsible both for your own sin and for potentially damaging another's relationship with God.

Did I encourage someone else to engage in sinful behavior through my actions?

Leading others to sin (also called "scandal") is sinful because it actively harms another person's soul by encouraging them away from God, making you spiritually responsible both for your own sin and for potentially damaging another's relationship with God.

Uncharity

Do I turn away from those who are homeless, especially during times of hardship?

Per the corporal works of mercy, we are to love our neighbors by feeding the hungry and sheltering the homeless and respecting their dignity especially in times of hardship.

When judging others based on their job, nationality, or other trait, do I look down upon them?

This sin dehumanizes people on the margins when we are called to love each other as a child of God as Jesus loved us.

Do I look down upon others based on their job, nationality, or other trait when engaging in socializing at bars, clubs, or online?

This sin dehumanizes people on the margins when we are called to love each other as a child of God as Jesus loved us.

Do I form negative opinions about others based on their job, nationality, or other traits?

This sin dehumanizes people on the margins when we are called to love each other as a child of God as Jesus loved us.

Did I let my personal interests overshadow the needs and well-being of others?

This is considered sinful because excessive self-focus and selfishness violates Christ's command to love our neighbors as ourselves and contradicts the Christian call to practice charity, compassion, and self-sacrifice for others.

Do I speak to others in words that disrespect their dignity as children of God?

Treating others with disrespect denies their inherent dignity as beings created in God's image and violates Christ's command to love one another as He has loved us.

Did you lose your patience with others, particularly in online interactions or social situations?

Losing patience with others fails to reflect God's infinite patience with us and violates Christ's command to love our neighbor, instead allowing anger and frustration to override charity and kindness.

Did I permit someone to be treated unfairly?

This sin violates the principles of justice, charity, and our moral obligation to defend human dignity and protect our neighbors from harm when we have the ability to intervene.

Did I permit someone to be treated unfairly?

This sin violates the principles of justice, charity, and our moral obligation to defend human dignity and protect our neighbors from harm when we have the ability to intervene.

Did you permit someone to be treated unfairly?

This sin violates the principles of justice, charity, and our moral obligation to defend human dignity and protect our neighbors from harm when we have the ability to intervene.

Have I not neglected to help others who were in need?

Refusing to help those in need violates Jesus's direct command to love our neighbor and practice the works of mercy, as illustrated in the parable of the Good Samaritan.

Have I demonstrated genuine compassion and practical support to those in need, particularly during times of crisis or hardship?

Failing to help those in need violates Christ's direct command to love our neighbor and care for the poor, effectively refusing to recognize Jesus Himself in the suffering of others.

Have I shown compassion and practical assistance to those in my life who are struggling, especially when it requires personal sacrifice or inconvenience?

Failing to help those in need violates Christ's direct command to love our neighbor and care for the poor, effectively refusing to recognize Jesus Himself in the suffering of others.

Have I shown compassion and practical assistance to those in need, especially when they are struggling financially, experiencing hardship, or going through difficult times?

Failing to help those in need violates Christ's direct command to love our neighbor and care for the poor, effectively refusing to recognize Jesus Himself in the suffering of others.

Have I given insufficient effort or enthusiasm to my pursuits, causing me to be lukewarm in loving and serving God?

We tend to sin by failing in effort to know and love God while exerting other efforts on worldly things.

Sloth

Did I turn away from those who needed my help in a time of need?

Neglecting the sick violates Jesus's direct command to care for the ill as if they were Christ himself.

Did you deliberately turn away from someone who was in need of your help?

Neglecting the sick violates Jesus's direct command to care for the ill as if they were Christ himself.

Have I neglected to guide my child toward knowing Christ through regular, meaningful conversations about faith and values?

Parents have the duty to be the first teachers of faith to their children, as promised in their child's baptism and outlined in Church teaching as the fundamental responsibility of Christian parenthood.

Have I neglected to model my Christian values and faith in front of my child?

Parents have the duty to be the first teachers of faith to their children, as promised in their child's baptism and outlined in Church teaching as the fundamental responsibility of Christian parenthood.

Have I neglected to pass on my faith values, especially regarding Christ's teachings, to those closest to me?

Parents have the duty to be the first teachers of faith to their children, as promised in their child's baptism and outlined in Church teaching as the fundamental responsibility of Christian parenthood.

Did I provide my children, who are their first and most important religious teachers, with adequate opportunities for their spiritual formation and education?

Parents have a primary and sacred duty to pass on the faith to their children, as they are considered their children's first and most important religious teachers who are directly responsible for their spiritual formation and eternal salvation.

Did I neglect my child's formation in the faith?

Parents have a primary and sacred duty to pass on the faith to their children, as they are considered their children's first and most important religious teachers who are directly responsible for their spiritual formation and eternal salvation.

Did you neglect to pray daily?

This is a sin because daily prayer is our essential lifeline of communication with God - deliberately neglecting it demonstrates ingratitude to our Creator, breaks our fundamental relationship with Him, and violates the First Commandment's call to properly worship God

Did I deliberately deprioritize my Sunday or Holy Day of Obligation Mass attendance for non-serious reasons?

deliberately choosing to skip Mass for non-serious reasons shows disobedience to Church authority, ingratitude for Christ's sacrifice, and places worldly priorities above our highest obligation to worship God.

Did you deprioritize and skip Mass on a Sunday or Holy Day of Obligation, allowing worldly priorities to take precedence over your worship of God?

deliberately choosing to skip Mass for non-serious reasons shows disobedience to Church authority, ingratitude for Christ's sacrifice, and places worldly priorities above our highest obligation to worship God.

Vainglory

Did I seek praise in sharing my charitable contributions through social media?

Seeking praise for charitable giving is sinful because it transforms an act meant to glorify God and help others into an exercise of pride and self-glorification.

Did I seek attention for my charitable giving by sharing it on social media?

Seeking praise for charitable giving is sinful because it transforms an act meant to glorify God and help others into an exercise of pride and self-glorification.

Am I more focused on gaining likes, comments, and follows on social media than pleasing God?

Vainglory corrupts our good actions by doing them for human acclaim rather than for God's glory, making us slaves to others' opinions rather than true servants of God.

Am I more focused on seeking admiration from others through my creative pursuits, social media presence, and public activities than pleasing God?

Vainglory corrupts our good actions by doing them for human acclaim rather than for God's glory, making us slaves to others' opinions rather than true servants of God.

Am I more focused on seeking admiration from my social circle than pleasing God through my online presence?

Vainglory corrupts our good actions by doing them for human acclaim rather than for God's glory, making us slaves to others' opinions rather than true servants of God.

Did you publicly distance yourself from your faith when faced with social pressure or discomfort among friends, online communities, or in casual conversations?

This is a public betrayal of Jesus' teaching that "whoever denies me before men, I will also deny before my Father who is in heaven," effectively choosing human respect over fidelity to God.

Theft

Did you intentionally fail to pay your debts?

Intentionally failing to pay debts is sinful because it violates both the seventh commandment against theft and the principle of justice that requires honoring our commitments to others.

Did I intentionally fail to pay my debts owed to others?

Intentionally failing to pay debts is sinful because it violates both the seventh commandment against theft and the principle of justice that requires honoring our commitments to others.

Did I intentionally fail to pay debts that were owed to others?

Intentionally failing to pay debts is sinful because it violates both the seventh commandment against theft and the principle of justice that requires honoring our commitments to others.

Did you help others steal something?

While not stealing yourself, this sin still participates in breaking the seventh commandment and shows disregard for others' rightful property and dignity.

Did you aid others in stealing?

While not stealing yourself, this sin still participates in breaking the seventh commandment and shows disregard for others' rightful property and dignity.

Did you help others steal by covering up their actions or turning a blind eye to their wrongdoing?

While not stealing yourself, this sin still participates in breaking the seventh commandment and shows disregard for others' rightful property and dignity.

Have I stolen anything that doesn't belong to me, regardless of its value?

Theft disrespects the human dignity and property rights of others, breaks trust within communities, and demonstrates both greed and a lack of trust in God's providence.

Have I taken something that doesn't belong to me, regardless of its value?

Theft disrespects the human dignity and property rights of others, breaks trust within communities, and demonstrates both greed and a lack of trust in God's providence.

Did I avoid paying others a fair price or wage?

Failing to pay a fair wage or price is a sin because it violates both the seventh commandment against stealing and the principle of social justice.

Did you avoid paying others a fair price?

Failing to pay a fair wage or price is a sin because it violates both the seventh commandment against stealing and the principle of social justice.

Did you avoid paying others a just price?

Failing to pay a fair wage or price is a sin because it violates both the seventh commandment against stealing and the principle of social justice.

False Witness

Have I misrepresented myself through my words to gain an advantage?

This is considered sinful because deliberately deceiving others for personal gain violates the eighth commandment against bearing false witness and breaks trust in human relationships while failing to reflect Christian virtues of honesty and integrity.

Did you misrepresent yourself to gain an advantage through words, perhaps by exaggerating your qualifications or experiences in online profiles or social interactions?

This is considered sinful because deliberately deceiving others for personal gain violates the eighth commandment against bearing false witness and breaks trust in human relationships while failing to reflect Christian virtues of honesty and integrity.

Did you use words to misrepresent yourself and gain an advantage over others?

This is considered sinful because deliberately deceiving others for personal gain violates the eighth commandment against bearing false witness and breaks trust in human relationships while failing to reflect Christian virtues of honesty and integrity.

Did I intentionally speak false and damaging words about another person?

Slander deliberately damages another person's reputation through false statements, violating both the Eighth Commandment against bearing false witness and Christ's command to love our neighbor.

Did I deceive others by sharing information that was not entirely truthful in social settings or online communities?

Deceiving others is a form of bearing false witness, damages trust between people, and breaks down human relationships that should reflect God's truth and love.

Have I deliberately exaggerated, misrepresented the truth, or lied about others in social media posts, online interactions, or conversations with friends?

Bearing false witness puts one's desires over truth, justice, and love of God.

Have I exaggerated, misrepresented the truth, or lied about others in social settings, online communities, or through casual conversations?

Bearing false witness puts one's desires over truth, justice, and love of God.

Have I deliberately exaggerated, misrepresented the truth, or lied about others in social settings where I've posted updates on social media or shared stories online?

Bearing false witness puts one's desires over truth, justice, and love of God.

Resent

Have I become sterilized?

This is considered sinful because deliberately altering one's fertility represents an act of defiance against God and implies we know better than divine wisdom, placing our desires for control above trust in God's plan for our lives.

Do I fear to speak the name of Jesus in public, especially when engaging with others who may be indifferent or even hostile towards His message?

Being ashamed or afraid to proclaim Christ represents a denial of our baptismal call to evangelize, shows lack of trust in God's protection, and fails to fulfill Jesus's command to "go and make disciples of all nations."

Have I harbored any resentment towards those who have wronged me, causing me to hold onto negative emotions rather than forgiving them in my heart?

Holding a grudge with enemies is sinful as it directly contradicts Christ's command to "love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you."

Did I harbor any resentment towards others after being wronged in situations like conflicts, disagreements, or misunderstandings?

Holding a grudge with enemies is sinful as it directly contradicts Christ's command to "love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you."

Did I deny forgiveness to someone who wronged me through hurtful words, causing resentment and blocking God's mercy?

Refusing to forgive others is sinful because it contradicts Jesus's direct command to forgive and His example of mercy, while also blocking God's forgiveness of our own sins.

Did I use hurtful words to deny forgiveness to someone who wronged me?

Refusing to forgive others is sinful because it contradicts Jesus's direct command to forgive and His example of mercy, while also blocking God's forgiveness of our own sins.

Did I use hurtful words to someone who wronged me?

Refusing to forgive others is sinful because it contradicts Jesus's direct command to forgive and His example of mercy, while also blocking God's forgiveness of our own sins.

Effeminacy

Do I fear to say the name of Jesus and preach the gospel to others, especially in casual conversations or social settings where I might face opposition or ridicule?

Being ashamed or afraid to proclaim Christ represents a denial of our baptismal call to evangelize, shows lack of trust in God's protection, and fails to fulfill Jesus's command to "go and make disciples of all nations."

Did you compromise your beliefs rather than upholding them in order to gain others' approval, especially among peers who value conformity over conviction?

Prioritizing human approval over standing firm in God's truth demonstrates both moral cowardice and places human opinion above divine authority.

Did I remain silent about Church teachings to avoid discomfort or conflict when engaging in social activities?

While it is a hardship and uncomfortable, we should not display softtness, but rather be witnesses to the Truth.

Did you remain silent about Church teachings in situations where it would have been challenging to express your views, so as to avoid discomfort or conflict?

While it is a hardship and uncomfortable, we should not display softtness, but rather be witnesses to the Truth.

Worldliness

Do I excessively worry about acquiring new possessions?

From a Catholic perspective, obsessing over possessions is considered sinful because it makes material things an idol that takes precedence over God and prevents spiritual growth while hindering one's ability to be generous and detached from worldly goods.

Retaliation

Do I harbor thoughts of retaliation against others?

Entertaining thoughts of revenge is sinful because it rejects Christ's teaching of forgiveness and love of enemies, choosing instead to harbor malice and a desire for personal retaliation rather than leaving justice to God.

Do you harbor thoughts of retaliation against others?

Entertaining thoughts of revenge is sinful because it rejects Christ's teaching of forgiveness and love of enemies, choosing instead to harbor malice and a desire for personal retaliation rather than leaving justice to God.

Lust

Did I allow myself to engage in thoughts that could lead me to interact with pornography?

Interacting with pornography reduces human beings to mere objects for personal gratification, violating their inherent dignity and worth as children of God.

Did I entertain thoughts involving pornography?

Interacting with pornography reduces human beings to mere objects for personal gratification, violating their inherent dignity and worth as children of God.

Have you reduced others to their usefulness, rather than seeing them in their full humanity?

While not sexual in nature, this sin is still a form of lust in that it objectifies others who are created in God's image and possesses inherent dignity,

Did I reduce others to their appearance, usefulness, or what they could do for me, rather than seeing them as beloved children of God?

While not sexual in nature, this sin is still a form of lust in that it objectifies others who are created in God's image and possesses inherent dignity,

Did you reduce others to their appearance, usefulness, or what they could do for you in your online interactions, rather than seeing them as full human beings?

While not sexual in nature, this sin is still a form of lust in that it objectifies others who are created in God's image and possesses inherent dignity,

Have I engaged in simulated sexual acts outside of marriage?

While our sexual nature is a gift, using it to indulge in sensual pleasures is sinful as it's ordered for a particular purpose within marriage.

Have I engaged in actual or simulated sexual acts outside of marriage, through any means or context?

While our sexual nature is a gift, using it to indulge in sensual pleasures is sinful as it's ordered for a particular purpose within marriage.

Have I engaged in actual or simulated sexual acts outside of marriage through actions that involve physical contact, gestures, or behaviors that could be interpreted as lustful or sensual, inspired by a desire for pleasure rather than self-control and chastity?

While our sexual nature is a gift, using it to indulge in sensual pleasures is sinful as it's ordered for a particular purpose within marriage.

Imprudence

Have I spent excessive time on frivolous pursuits that divert my attention from spiritual growth and service to others?

Wasteful pursuits squander the precious time God has given us for meaningful spiritual growth and service to others.

Have I wasted time on frivolous pursuits that bring me fleeting pleasure, but leave me unfulfilled and lacking in spiritual growth?

Wasteful pursuits squander the precious time God has given us for meaningful spiritual growth and service to others.

Sensuality

Did I desire worldly experiences over spiritual growth?

Prioritizing worldly pleasures and experiences over spiritual development is considered sinful as it violates the First Commandment by placing temporal desires above one's eternal relationship with God.

Did I desire social connections, entertainment, and leisure activities over deepening my spiritual life?

Prioritizing worldly pleasures and experiences over spiritual development is considered sinful as it violates the First Commandment by placing temporal desires above one's eternal relationship with God.

Did you use controlled substances to detach from reality?

Using controlled substances deliberately impairs your God-given reason and free will, and an attempt to avoid dealing with life's challenges rather than facing them with God's help.

Did you deliberately use controlled substances to detach from reality?

Using controlled substances deliberately impairs your God-given reason and free will, and an attempt to avoid dealing with life's challenges rather than facing them with God's help.

Did you use controlled substances to detach from reality in ways that led you further away from God's plan for your life?

Using controlled substances deliberately impairs your God-given reason and free will, and an attempt to avoid dealing with life's challenges rather than facing them with God's help.

Do you allow your own desires for pleasure and entertainment to take precedence over your relationship with God, potentially causing you to lose sight of His will for your life?

This sin makes idol of physical or emotional gratification, turning what should be a gift from God into the primary focus of one's life, displacing God as the center and highest good.

Do I allow my desires for pleasure and relaxation to distract me from my relationship with God, making Him secondary in my thoughts and actions?

This sin makes idol of physical or emotional gratification, turning what should be a gift from God into the primary focus of one's life, displacing God as the center and highest good.

Do I make my desires for physical and emotional gratification, such as those related to socializing, travel, or entertainment, the primary focus of my thoughts and actions, potentially displacing my relationship with God?

This sin makes idol of physical or emotional gratification, turning what should be a gift from God into the primary focus of one's life, displacing God as the center and highest good.

Did you engage in deliberate self-stimulation for sensual pleasure?

While our sexual nature is a gift, using it for self-indulgence in sensual pleasures is sinful as it's ordered for a particular purpose within marriage.

Impenitence

Have I refused to admit my wrongdoing, clinging instead to a particular sin?

Impenitence is sinful because refusing to repent is a prideful rejection of God's mercy.

Have I stubbornly refused to acknowledge my wrongdoing, even after realizing the harm caused by my thoughts or actions?

Impenitence is sinful because refusing to repent is a prideful rejection of God's mercy.

Have I refused to acknowledge my wrongdoing, thereby holding onto prideful thoughts that reject God's mercy?

Impenitence is sinful because refusing to repent is a prideful rejection of God's mercy.

Callousness

Did you turn away from someone who was experiencing illness, injury, or suffering?

This is sinful because it violates Jesus's direct command to care for the sick (Matthew 25:36) and fails to fulfill our fundamental Christian duty to show compassion and mercy to those who are suffering.

Blasphemy

Did you swear to God in the heat of an argument, during a moment of frustration, or while engaging in casual conversations?

This sin violates the Second Commandment by treating God's holy name with disrespect rather than reverence.

Did I receive Holy Communion while knowingly in a state of sin that could lead to blaspheming God through my deeds?

This mortal sin is a form of sacrilege and profanes the real presence of Christ and shows grave disrespect for the sacrament by receiving unworthily.

Did I receive Holy Communion while knowingly in a state of mortal sin, which would be an insult to God and profane the real presence of Christ?

This mortal sin is a form of sacrilege and profanes the real presence of Christ and shows grave disrespect for the sacrament by receiving unworthily.

Did I receive Holy Communion while knowingly in a state of mortal sin, profaning the real presence of Christ through my unworthy deeds?

This mortal sin is a form of sacrilege and profanes the real presence of Christ and shows grave disrespect for the sacrament by receiving unworthily.

Did you utter Jesus' name or God's name in an irreverent or scornful manner?

This is sinful as using God's holy name carelessly or disrespectfully shows contempt for His divine nature and fails to give proper honor to the sacred name of God, which should only be used in prayer, worship, or respectful discussion.

Did you use the name of Jesus or God in a careless or irreverent manner, such as mocking them, using their names as insults, or speaking them with disrespect?

This is sinful as using God's holy name carelessly or disrespectfully shows contempt for His divine nature and fails to give proper honor to the sacred name of God, which should only be used in prayer, worship, or respectful discussion.

Ambition

Did I let my desire for power and dominance influence my decisions and treatment of others in my pursuit of creative ambitions?

inordinate ambition and the obsession with power corrupts the soul by placing our desire to dominate and control above God's authority, turning us away from humble service and toward prideful self-exaltation.

Did my desire for power and dominance influence how I interacted and related to others?

inordinate ambition and the obsession with power corrupts the soul by placing our desire to dominate and control above God's authority, turning us away from humble service and toward prideful self-exaltation.

Greed

Did the accumulation of money and possessions become a driving force in my life, replacing trust in God's providence?

This sin makes money an idol that replaces trust in God's providence, turning what should be a tool for good into an object of worship.

Did I make accumulating money and possessions my ultimate goal in life?

This sin makes money an idol that replaces trust in God's providence, turning what should be a tool for good into an object of worship.

Have I made acquiring wealth and material possessions a driving force in my life, leading me to prioritize them over my relationship with God?

This sin makes money an idol that replaces trust in God's providence, turning what should be a tool for good into an object of worship.

Oppression

Did you mistreat, harass, or discriminate against others through your words and actions in social situations, such as bars, clubs, restaurants, or online communities?

It's a sin to execute an unjust and cruel exercise of power or authority over others instead of respecting the God-given dignity of every human person.

Did I intentionally or unintentionally mistreat others, perhaps through my actions online, in social situations, or through my words and behavior, contrary to respecting their God-given dignity?

It's a sin to execute an unjust and cruel exercise of power or authority over others instead of respecting the God-given dignity of every human person.

Autonomy

Did I take for granted the good things in my life, forgetting to acknowledge their source in God's providence?

Believing that one's blessings are due to one's own self-sufficiency and determination is a sin as it is a rejection of recognizing Divine Providence as being ultimately responsible.

Did you take for granted the creative pursuits, travel experiences, and social connections in your life, forgetting to acknowledge their source in God's providence?

Believing that one's blessings are due to one's own self-sufficiency and determination is a sin as it is a rejection of recognizing Divine Providence as being ultimately responsible.

Did I entertain doubts about God's existence in my thoughts?

Deliberately entertaining doubts about God's existence is a sin against faith because it questions the most fundamental truth of our faith and shows a lack of trust in God's clear self-revelation through creation, scripture, and the Church's teachings.

Did I think solely of my own abilities, failing to acknowledge our complete dependence on God's grace?

Pride is self-reliance repeats Lucifer's original sin of wanting independence from God and fails to acknowledge our complete dependence on divine grace.

Did I trust solely in my own abilities, neglecting to acknowledge and rely on God's assistance?

Pride is self-reliance repeats Lucifer's original sin of wanting independence from God and fails to acknowledge our complete dependence on divine grace.

Did I trust solely in my own abilities, neglecting to acknowledge God's active presence and assistance in my life?

Pride is self-reliance repeats Lucifer's original sin of wanting independence from God and fails to acknowledge our complete dependence on divine grace.

Presumption

Did I assume that my talents, skills, and accomplishments are solely due to my own abilities and efforts, forgetting to acknowledge God's hand in guiding me?

Believing that one's blessings are due to one's own self-sufficiency and determination is a sin as it is a rejection of recognizing Divine Providence as being ultimately responsible.

Did you deliberately persist in sinful behavior, counting on God's mercy without making any effort to change in your personal life or relationships?

Presumption of God's mercy is a sin against hope because it takes His forgiveness for granted without true repentance or effort to amend one's life, showing disrespect for divine justice and mercy.

Have you deliberately persisted in sinful behavior, counting on God's mercy without making any effort to change your ways, perhaps when you've been consistently engaging in activities that go against your better judgment or values?

Presumption of God's mercy is a sin against hope because it takes His forgiveness for granted without true repentance or effort to amend one's life, showing disrespect for divine justice and mercy.

Did you deliberately persist in sinful behavior, taking God's mercy for granted without making any effort to change your thoughts, words, or actions?

Presumption of God's mercy is a sin against hope because it takes His forgiveness for granted without true repentance or effort to amend one's life, showing disrespect for divine justice and mercy.

Did you procrastinate going to confession while in a state of sin, perhaps putting off your spiritual well-being for another day?

Deliberately delaying confession while in mortal sin is a serious offense because it recklessly endangers your soul's salvation, shows contempt for God's mercy through the sacrament of reconciliation, and demonstrates prideful presumption that you'll have time later to repent.

Did you procrastinate going to confession while in a state of sin, recklessly endangering your soul's salvation and demonstrating prideful presumption that you'd have time later to repent?

Deliberately delaying confession while in mortal sin is a serious offense because it recklessly endangers your soul's salvation, shows contempt for God's mercy through the sacrament of reconciliation, and demonstrates prideful presumption that you'll have time later to repent.

Did you put off going to confession, delaying your reconciliation with God despite knowing you were in need of it?

Deliberately delaying confession while in mortal sin is a serious offense because it recklessly endangers your soul's salvation, shows contempt for God's mercy through the sacrament of reconciliation, and demonstrates prideful presumption that you'll have time later to repent.

Envy

Have I secretly wished that others would struggle in achieving their goals, so that my own perceived lack or shortcomings might seem less significant?

Envy leads us to have discontent for another's possessions so we won't feel the pain of comparison or perceived lack in our own lives.

Have I been envious of others' possessions, fixating on coveting what they have?

This sin stems from ingratitude for one's own blessings and letting material desires control our hearts.

Have I been discontent with what I have and fixate on coveting others' possessions, particularly through social media or interactions with friends who frequently talk about their material successes?

This sin stems from ingratitude for one's own blessings and letting material desires control our hearts.

Incontinence

Did I lack self-control and speak to others with words that were vulgar or inappropriate, violating their dignity?

This sin of incontinence shows a lack of self-restraint and violates the dignity of others.

Did I lack self-control and express myself to others with coarse or unbecoming language?

This sin of incontinence shows a lack of self-restraint and violates the dignity of others.

Did I lack self-control when speaking to others in social settings, using language that was unbecoming or hurtful?

This sin of incontinence shows a lack of self-restraint and violates the dignity of others.

Gluttony

Did I overindulge in eating or drinking beyond what's reasonable, particularly when it comes to treating myself to favorite foods or drinks?

This sin of gluttony demonstrates an inordinate attachment to worldly pleasures and rejects the call to temperance.

Did you overindulge in eating or drinking beyond what's reasonable, especially when it comes to enjoying social gatherings or parties?

This sin of gluttony demonstrates an inordinate attachment to worldly pleasures and rejects the call to temperance.

Did I overindulge in eating or drinking beyond what's reasonable, especially when socializing with friends at venues that prioritize indulgence?

This sin of gluttony demonstrates an inordinate attachment to worldly pleasures and rejects the call to temperance.

Prodigality

Have I recklessly prioritized taking risks in financial pursuits, putting the needs of others before my own family's stability?

This sin violates the virtue of stewardship by recklessly risking resources God has entrusted to us, while potentially harming our ability to provide for family and those in need.

Have I excessively prioritized socializing, traveling, or other leisure activities over my financial obligations and responsibilities?

This sin violates the virtue of stewardship by recklessly risking resources God has entrusted to us, while potentially harming our ability to provide for family and those in need.

Gossip

Have I taken pleasure in discussing others' private affairs, even if what I shared was true?

Gossip violates human dignity and charity by harming others' reputations for our own entertainment or pride.

Have I taken pleasure in sharing others' private affairs or flaws through conversation or online platforms, even if what I shared was true?

Gossip violates human dignity and charity by harming others' reputations for our own entertainment or pride.

Impiety

Did I engage in work on days when it was otherwise avoidable, thus disregarding Sundays as a day of rest?

It's irreverent to work on a Sunday as it's a holy day of rest, worship, and a day of protest against the servitude of work and the worship of money (CCC).

Did you fail to always show reverence for the Most Blessed Sacrament during your leisure activities, such as socializing or engaging in creative pursuits?

This sin is in failing to show proper reverence demonstrates a lack of faith, respect, and proper worship due to God.

Did I fail to show reverence for Most Blessed Sacrament in times of solemnity and quiet contemplation?

This sin is in failing to show proper reverence demonstrates a lack of faith, respect, and proper worship due to God.

Anger

Have I allowed anger to simmer in my heart, festering resentment rather than seeking reconciliation?

Uncontrolled anger corrupts our own heart, damages our relationship with both God and neighbor.

Impurity

Have I used certain practices, substances, or objects to prevent pregnancy?

This sin intentionally separates the unitive and procreative purposes of marriage and violates the proper use of one's sexuality.

Have you used substances, practices, or objects to prevent pregnancy?

This sin intentionally separates the unitive and procreative purposes of marriage and violates the proper use of one's sexuality.

Did I use practices or objects to prevent pregnancy in my life?

This sin intentionally separates the unitive and procreative purposes of marriage and violates the proper use of one's sexuality.

Have I dressed immodestly in a way that offends my own dignity?

Wearing attire that's exceptionally revealing or indecent violates chastity and beckons sins from others.

Have I dressed in a way that immodestly exposes my body, leading me to tempt others or myself in impure thoughts?

Wearing attire that's exceptionally revealing or indecent violates chastity and beckons sins from others.

Have I exposed my body in a way that disrespects my dignity?

Wearing attire that's exceptionally revealing or indecent violates chastity and beckons sins from others.

Infidelity

Have I broken my marriage vows through any actions or deeds that have compromised my fidelity to my spouse?

Fidelity in marriage is viewed as a sacred covenant made before God - not just a contract between people, thus breaking vows is seen as a betrayal of both divine and human trust.

Fornication

Have I engaged in non-procreative sex?

While the sexual natures are a gift, it's a sin to stray away from their ordering toward the unitive and procreative nature within marriage.

Did I have any non-marital, non-procreative sex?

While the sexual natures are a gift, it's a sin to stray away from their ordering toward the unitive and procreative nature within marriage.

Have I engaged in non-procreative sex outside of marriage, either through physical intimacy or other forms of expression?

While the sexual natures are a gift, it's a sin to stray away from their ordering toward the unitive and procreative nature within marriage.

Violence

Have I knowingly acted in ways that brought pain or suffering to someone else, particularly through my words or actions online?

When we deliberately harm others, we attack their God-given dignity.

Have I knowingly acted in ways that intentionally caused harm or suffering to someone else through my words, actions, or behavior?

When we deliberately harm others, we attack their God-given dignity.

Adultery

Have you entertained inappropriate feelings toward someone else's spouse?

This sin undermines the sacred bond of marriage by treating another person as an object of desire rather than respecting their dignity and commitment to their spouse.

Sorcery

Have I interacted with mediums, fortune tellers, tarot card readers, or Ouija boards?

This sin is a violation of the First Commandment because it attempts to bypass God's providence and divine will by seeking supernatural knowledge through forbidden means, effectively placing trust in occult practices rather than in God.

Have I ever interacted with individuals claiming to possess supernatural knowledge or powers through means forbidden by God, such as tarot card readers, fortune tellers, mediums, or Ouija boards?

This sin is a violation of the First Commandment because it attempts to bypass God's providence and divine will by seeking supernatural knowledge through forbidden means, effectively placing trust in occult practices rather than in God.

Apostasy

Have you explicitly rejected God's existence either through internal thoughts or verbal declarations, particularly in contexts where faith is explicitly discussed?

Denying God's existence after having been baptized apostasy is one of the gravest sins possible because it is declaring the Author of Life and Source of all being to be non-existent, which directly contradicts both reason and divine revelation.

Have you explicitly rejected the existence of God, either through thoughts or discussions that have taken place online or in social settings?

Denying God's existence after having been baptized apostasy is one of the gravest sins possible because it is declaring the Author of Life and Source of all being to be non-existent, which directly contradicts both reason and divine revelation.