A Catholic Examination of Conscience

18-24 Widowed 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 through my deeds?

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 in any situation where their guidance was requested?

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 in deed?

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

Did you reject the unity of the Catholic Church when frustrated with others within?

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 I reject the unity of the Church through my thoughts when frustrated with the human aspects of our Catholic community?

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 I reject unity among believers when my frustration with church members' human flaws led me to doubt or dismiss their value in the body of Christ?

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 skip days of fasting during obligatory times, thereby disobeying your spiritual obligation to practice self-denial and penance?

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 speak disrespectfully about 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 spoken disrespectfully about 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, through my actions and attitudes, dishonored my mother?

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, particularly in our interactions within our household?

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 by my actions, attitudes, or decisions toward my mother (and/or father) failed to show them the respect and honor due to their role in giving life, nurturing, and forming me in faith and virtue?

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 use my words to encourage or condone other Catholics from staying away 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 you lead other Catholics astray by your words, causing them to stay away 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 use my words to encourage other Catholics away from receiving the Sacraments or attending 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 you allow the opinions of others to influence what you know is true, rather than standing firm in your convictions?

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

Did I condone a funeral where human remains were not properly buried, possibly scandalizing others by my deeds?

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 you condone a funeral where human remains were not properly buried, failing to uphold the Church's teaching on the sacredness of the human body?

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 allow someone to influence my child in ways that may be contrary to Catholic values?

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 bad influences to negatively impact my relationships with others?

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 you condone another Catholic to marry outside the Church through your words?

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

Did I, in conversation with another Catholic, give my approval when they told me of their intention to marry outside of 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 ever give my Catholic friends permission to marry outside the Church?

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

Uncharity

Do I look down upon others based on their occupation, ethnicity, or other characteristics?

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 you look down upon others based on their job, nationality, or other trait?

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 put my own interests above those of others, even if only in my thoughts?

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.

Did your interests in personal pursuits, hobbies, or leisure activities overshadow your concern for others' needs and well-being?

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 thinklessly treat others, the 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 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 allow someone to be treated unfairly in my presence, perhaps through silence or passivity?

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 fail to stand up for someone else when they were being 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 failed to assist others who genuinely needed my help?

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 shown practical assistance to those in need?

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 strangers in need, such as those experiencing homelessness, food insecurity, or other forms of material 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 to those around me, particularly in difficult circumstances where they may be struggling or in need of support?

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.

Lukewarmness

Am I uninterested in growing deeper in my faith, choosing comfort and mediocrity over the transformative love God offers?

Lukewarmness in spiritual growth is sinful because one essentially chooses comfort and mediocrity over the transformative love God offers, which Jesus specifically warned against in Revelation 3:16.

Have I been unmotivated or halfhearted in my commitment to loving and serving God, especially during times when I have other priorities or competing interests?

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

Merciless

Have I condemned others through my words?

Condemning others is a sin of mercilessness because it places oneself in God's role as judge and denies others the same mercy and forgiveness that God extends to all of us.

Callousness

Did I fail to provide means to someone who was suffering, even when it was within my power to do so?

As part of the corporal works of mercy, we're called to be merciful and compassionate to those in distress.

Did I turn away from someone who was ill?

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.

Did I neglect to show compassion and mercy to someone who was ill, perhaps by being too preoccupied or distant?

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.

Sloth

Did I show indifference to those who were ill and needed my help by turning away from them?

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

Did you show indifference to those who needed your assistance?

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

Did I turn away from those who were in need of my assistance, especially during times when they required immediate help?

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

Did I permit my friend to continue in error by avoiding difficult conversations when it was necessary for their spiritual growth?

Permitting a child to continue in error by avoiding difficult conversations is sinful because it neglects our God-given parental duty to guide and form our children's moral and spiritual development, placing our own comfort above their eternal wellbeing.

Have I neglected to guide my child toward knowing Christ, especially in times of great need or importance?

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 share the love of Christ with my child through everyday moments and conversations, rather than letting opportunities slip by due to busyness or distraction?

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 lead my child in a way that helps them grow closer to Christ?

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.

In what ways have I put my own interests ahead of genuine needs and wellbeing in close relationships?

Neglecting family duties is considered sinful because it violates both divine law and natural law, where God entrusts us with specific responsibilities to nurture, protect, and care for our family members as part of our fundamental Christian vocation.

In what ways have I put my own interests ahead of my own needs and wellbeing, neglecting self-care and prioritizing fleeting desires over long-term growth?

Neglecting family duties is considered sinful because it violates both divine law and natural law, where God entrusts us with specific responsibilities to nurture, protect, and care for our family members as part of our fundamental Christian vocation.

In what ways have I put my own interests ahead of my genuine needs, especially in moments of stress or uncertainty?

Neglecting family duties is considered sinful because it violates both divine law and natural law, where God entrusts us with specific responsibilities to nurture, protect, and care for our family members as part of our fundamental Christian vocation.

Did I neglect my child's religious 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 you neglect to provide your child with their rightful religious 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 to maintain my spiritual disciplines, such as daily prayer?

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 fail to make time for prayer each day, neglecting my spiritual well-being?

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 deprioritize and skip Mass on a Sunday or Holy Day of Obligation, putting worldly priorities above my highest obligation to worship 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.

Did I deprioritize Sunday Mass on a Holy Day of Obligation for non-serious reasons, showing sloth and ingratitude for Christ's sacrifice?

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 I deprioritize attending Mass on Sundays or Holy Days of Obligation, choosing instead to engage in leisure activities that I considered more enjoyable?

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 to draw attention to myself through giving alms?

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 public acclaim for sharing my good deeds?

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 praise from others for giving alms in a way that was motivated by my desire for self-approval rather than a genuine intention to serve God and help those in need?

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 defending my reputation online and gaining social validation through digital means 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 human validation for my artistic pursuits 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.

Did you publicly distance yourself from your faith when faced with social pressure or discomfort, choosing to prioritize human respect over fidelity to God?

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, depriving others of what is rightfully theirs?

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 intentionally fail to pay 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 you intentionally fail to pay 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 you help others to steal?

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

Did I encourage others to steal?

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

Did you assist others in taking something that didn't belong to them?

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

Did you avoid paying others a fair price for goods or services?

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 I avoid paying others a fair price by intentionally undercharging them for goods or services?

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 I avoid paying others a fair price in my daily transactions?

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

Did you intentionally misrepresent yourself to 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.

Have I done anything that intentionally misled others?

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.

Did I ever intentionally mislead others by saying something that was not true?

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 you intentionally misled others through your words, actions, or behavior?

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 formal or informal conversations related to their personal lives or experiences?

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 online communities related to shared interests, social media platforms, or 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 online communities related to shared interests?

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

Resent

Did 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.

Did 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.

Did 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.

Did I harbor any resentment against someone who has wronged me, perhaps in a situation where I felt betrayed or hurt?

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."

Have I held any grudges against those who have wronged me?

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 refuse to let go of resentment towards someone who hurt 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 proclaim the name of Jesus in conversations where others may be interested?

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."

Do I fear to speak the name of Jesus in public gatherings or conversations where others are present?

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."

Do I fear to speak the name of Jesus in public settings where I have opportunities to share my faith with others?

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 I compromise my beliefs to gain the approval and admiration of my peers, rather than standing firm in what I know to be true?

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

Did you prioritize gaining approval from your peers over upholding what you know to be right in order to fit in or avoid conflict?

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 with people in my social circle?

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

Worldliness

Do I constantly think about my possessions, considering them more valuable than what is truly important in my life?

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 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.

Do I nurture desires for personal retaliation?

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.

Imprudence

Have I squandered my time on frivolous pursuits?

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

Sensuality

Did I desire entertainment, leisure activities, and worldly pursuits over spiritual growth and deepening my relationship with God?

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 indulge in behaviors that distort your perception of 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 impair your God-given reason and free will by using controlled substances?

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.

Have I used controlled substances in a way that impairs my God-given reason and free will, rather than facing life's challenges with faith?

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 I prioritize my own desires for physical pleasure over 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.

Do I make pleasures my top priority over my relationship with God, even if it means putting enjoyable experiences or desires ahead of spiritual growth and intimacy with Him?

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 your thoughts, words, and actions prioritize sensual desires over your 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 I engage in deliberate solo physical gratification?

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.

Have you engaged in masturbation for personal gratification, thereby using your bodily nature for self-indulgence rather than its intended purpose within a sacramental marriage?

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, stubbornly holding onto it, even in my thoughts?

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

Have I refused to admit my wrongdoing, clinging instead to pride and a lack of remorse?

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

Have I stubbornly refused to let go of a particular sin, holding onto it even when given the opportunity for forgiveness?

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

Blasphemy

Did you use God's name in an oath, swearing to Him?

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, thereby showing disrespect for the sacrament?

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 receive Holy Communion while knowingly in a state of grave sin, leading to sacrilege and profaning 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 you publicly distance yourself from Catholic teaching, Jesus Christ, or the Church when faced with discomfort or social pressure among your peers or online communities?

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.

Did I use Jesus' name or God's name lightly, without reverence, or as a curse?

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 allow my desire for power and dominance to influence how I interacted with others, especially in situations where I wanted control or recognition?

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 your desire for power and dominance influence how you treat others in your personal and professional relationships?

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 pursuit of success and status allow my desire for power and dominance to influence how I treated others, often prioritizing my own interests over theirs?

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

Have I made the accumulation of material possessions a driving force in my life, thereby idolizing wealth over 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.

Have I made accumulating wealth and material possessions a driving force in my 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.

Oppression

Have I oppressed, harassed, or discriminated against others through my words, actions, or behaviors?

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.

Lust

Did I reduce others to their appearance, usefulness, or what they could do for me, rather than seeing them as unique individuals worthy of my respect and compassion?

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 reduced others to their usefulness, rather than seeing them as full human beings, especially in situations where I am seeking something from them?

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, especially those in my social circles and online communities, to their usefulness or what they could do for me 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, using my imagination to gratify lustful desires?

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.

Autonomy

Did I take for granted the blessings in my life, forgetting to acknowledge their source in God's providence through self-sufficient thoughts?

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 attribute my accomplishments, such as traveling to music festivals or trying new recipes, solely to my own abilities and determination, forgetting to acknowledge God's providence 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 I allow myself to harbor doubts about God's existence?

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.

Have you relied solely on your own abilities, neglecting to acknowledge your dependence on God's grace in times of need?

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 place excessive confidence in my own abilities, neglecting to acknowledge my dependence on God's grace and favor?

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 you trust solely in your own abilities to navigate life's challenges without acknowledging your need for God's guidance?

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

Envy

Have you ever envied others' accomplishments, possessions, or blessings and secretly wished they would lose them?

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 secretly compared my blessings to those of others, wishing they were mine instead?

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 secretly wished that others would lose their talents, gifts, or success?

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 discontent with what others have, fixating on coveting their possessions?

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

Have I been discontent with what God has given me, fixating on coveting others' possessions?

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 in ways that lead me to crave things I don't really need, rather than being grateful for my own blessings?

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

Incontinence

Did I lack self-control when speaking to others, leading them to be offended by my use of vulgar or inappropriate language?

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

Did you lack self-control in your words, speaking with vulgarity that offended others?

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

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

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, especially during special occasions or social events where excessive consumption is often encouraged?

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 during social gatherings or events where food and drink are plentiful?

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

Have you overindulged in eating or drinking beyond what's reasonable, potentially leading to an excessive attachment to worldly pleasures and a rejection of the call to temperance?

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

Prodigality

Have I allowed excessive and wasteful use of money to take precedence over my financial responsibilities, potentially harming those in need?

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.

Do I allow wasteful spending on frivolous activities to jeopardize my financial obligations or family needs, potentially causing me to be irresponsible with God's gifts?

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 sharing 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 through casual conversations, 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 concerns, even if they were genuine, through conversations or social media posts?

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

Impiety

Did I involve others in work that could have been avoided on a Sunday?

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 fail to show reverence for Most Blessed Sacrament in the various settings where it is present?

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

Did you fail to show reverence for the Most Blessed Sacrament during Adoration or other liturgical events?

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

Did you fail to always show reverence for Most Blessed Sacrament during Mass, processions, or Adoration of the Eucharist?

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

Anger

Have I nursed anger or held onto feelings of rage rather than seeking reconciliation in my interactions with others, particularly those who have wronged me?

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.

Did you intentionally use 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.

Have I dressed immodestly in a way that respects my dignity, especially when engaging in social events or activities where modesty is expected of me?

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

Infidelity

Have you broken your marriage vows by committing infidelity through deeds?

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

Did I engage in non-procreative sex outside of marriage?

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-procreative sex, especially in situations where I was supposed to be using my body solely for God's glory?

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 caused another person to suffer pain, distress, or hurt?

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

Have I committed deeds that brought intentional pain or suffering to others, especially in moments of conflict or disagreements?

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

Adultery

Have I entertained inappropriate feelings toward someone else's spouse, perhaps in a situation where I was spending more time than necessary engaging with them at social events or through online interactions?

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.

Murder

Have you participated in an abortion?

It's a grave sin to actively participate in the intentional taking of another's life, which robs the gift of life that was granted to others by God.

Sorcery

Have you interacted with mediums, fortune tellers, tarot card readers, or Ouija boards, attempting to bypass God's providence through forbidden means?

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 interacted with those who claim to possess supernatural knowledge through forbidden means, such as 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.

Did I engage with people who claim to possess supernatural knowledge or powers through forbidden means, such as tarot card readings or communicating with spirits using 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.

Presumption

Have you presumptuously counted on God's mercy without making any effort to change, even when engaging in sinful behaviors for the first time?

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 assume God's mercy without making any effort to change, persisting in behaviors that you knew were sinful?

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 persisted in sinful behavior, counting on God's mercy without making any effort to change, even when faced with challenges or obstacles that could have prompted genuine conversion and spiritual growth?

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 put off going to confession while aware of your need for spiritual guidance, thereby showing contempt for God's mercy through the sacrament of reconciliation?

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.

Apostasy

Have you explicitly rejected the existence of God, either through your thoughts or to others?

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 your thoughts or verbal expressions, in any context where faith was a significant consideration?

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 in your thoughts, either internally or shared with others?

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.