A Catholic Examination of Conscience

35-44 Divorced Mother with Adult Children

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

print

Disobedience

Was I disobedient to my parents through my words, actions, or decisions?

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 failing to carry out their reasonable requests in a timely manner?

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 in matters related to my adult children?

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

Did you deliberately skip an obligatory day, such as Ash Wednesday, without a valid excuse?

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 I condone the scattering or improper disposal of human remains, thereby disrespecting the dignity of the deceased?

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 scorn or mock the Church through my words?

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, in my words or actions, 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.

Have I dishonored my mother through my actions, particularly in regards to the respect owed to her for giving life and nurturing me?

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 dishonored my mother through my actions, especially when she provided for me during difficult times?

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 condone fellow Catholics from staying away from Sacraments or Mass 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.

Have I, through my words, condoned 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 I ever cause other Catholics to feel discouraged 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 provide necessary support when someone in my community was struggling, even though I had the means 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 permit my adult child to continue in error by withholding guidance, potentially due to avoiding an uncomfortable conversation?

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.

Did you condone a funeral where a loved one's remains were not properly buried?

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 in our daily life?

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 through their activities, associations, or media consumption?

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 influenced by worldly values that contradict Christian teachings?

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 condone another Catholic to marry outside the Church by my words?

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

Did I publicly endorse or justify abortion or euthanasia through my words?

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

Did I endorse abortion through my words, either by agreeing with or justifying the practice?

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

Uncharity

Do I turn away from those who are in need, particularly strangers and those who have been displaced?

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.

Do you turn away from those who are living on the streets?

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.

Do I turn away from those who are homeless and in need of shelter?

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.

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.

Do you look down upon people in your community or workplace 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.

Do you think less of others based on their occupation, cultural background, or other personal 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 prioritize my own interests over the needs of others, especially those who may be less fortunate or in need of support?

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 I prioritize my own needs over the well-being of those around me, particularly in situations where their needs conflicted with my own?

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.

Have I spoken or acted in ways that disrespect others 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 I lose my patience with someone, perhaps in a difficult conversation or when faced with frustration?

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 lose my patience with others in public places or during stressful 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 you permit someone else to be treated unfairly in your workplace, community, or social circles?

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 failed to assist those in need when they sought 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 compassion and practical assistance to those in need, particularly through my volunteer work and efforts to support local causes?

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 in my life who are struggling, through practical assistance such as time or resources?

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, such as neighbors, acquaintances, or strangers who are struggling financially or emotionally?

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 in my faith, choosing comfort 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.

Merciless

Have I condemned others, especially 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.

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.

Have I spoken words that condemn others?

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.

Sloth

Did you neglect those who were in need of physical help due to illness?

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

Did I deny my assistance to those who needed it?

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

Did I permit my adult child to continue in error by avoiding a difficult conversation, thereby neglecting my responsibility to guide them spiritually?

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.

Did I permit my child to continue in error by avoiding difficult conversations, thereby neglecting my parental duty to guide their moral development?

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 failed to intentionally lead my child towards a deeper understanding and love of 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.

Have I failed to introduce my child to Christ's teachings, particularly in regards to our shared 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 failed to lead my child toward a deeper understanding of their faith?

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 the genuine well-being and needs of those I am responsible for caring for?

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 adult children's genuine needs and well-being?

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 needs and desires ahead of my adult children's genuine wellbeing and interests?

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 spiritual formation and eternal salvation by failing to provide them with guidance on their 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 I fail to provide spiritual guidance to my adult child?

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 pray daily, demonstrating ingratitude for God's presence in my life?

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 neglect to make time for God in my daily routine?

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 attending Mass on Sundays or Holy Days of Obligation, choosing to prioritize worldly pursuits over my 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 deliberately deprioritize my commitment to attend Mass on Sundays or Holy Days of Obligation, prioritizing other activities over this most important obligation?

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 Sunday or Holy Day of Obligation Masses, choosing to prioritize other worldly activities over 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.

Theft

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 intentionally fail to pay back 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 help others 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 help others 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 help others steal something? This sin still participates in breaking the seventh commandment and shows disregard for others' rightful property and dignity.

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, in any way, 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.

Did I avoid paying others a fair price by deliberately shortchanging them?

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 or wage through my deeds?

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 or wage in my business dealings?

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 I misrepresent myself to gain an advantage in my personal, professional, or social relationships?

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 misrepresent myself to gain an advantage in personal relationships?

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 deceived others by telling them something that was not true, or by withholding information from them?

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' qualities, virtues, or shortcomings in formal or informal settings?

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 casual conversations, social media, or online forums?

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 conversations, emails, or social media posts, potentially damaging relationships or reputations?

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

Effeminacy

Do I fear to speak publicly about my faith in Jesus, even when it may be uncomfortable or unpopular among those around me?

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 compromised my beliefs to gain approval from others, rather than upholding what I know to be right, especially in regards to prioritizing their opinions over God's truth?

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 social discomfort or conflict?

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

Lust

Have you engaged your mind with pornography?

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

Have I reduced others to their usefulness, rather than seeing them as full members of society created in God's image?

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 usefulness or appearance in your thoughts, rather than seeing them as full human beings created in God's image?

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 used my body to indulge in sensual pleasures outside of marriage, either through actual or simulated sexual acts?

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.

Sensuality

Did I desire worldly experiences over growth in 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.

Have you used 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 escape your problems?

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 in an attempt to escape from your responsibilities?

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 emotional comfort and relaxation over my relationship with God, even in moments of stress or uncertainty?

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 prioritize my own emotional gratification and desires over my relationship with God, especially in moments of loneliness or stress?

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 masturbation, particularly when seeking solitary comfort or relaxation?

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 I used my body in simulated sexual acts outside of marriage, either through digital means or physically, even if it was just for personal gratification?

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.

Resent

Have I harbored any resentment towards those who have wronged me, even in my thoughts?

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 those who have wronged me, particularly in situations where they have disagreed with my opinions or treated me unfairly?

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 people who have wronged me, perhaps those I've encountered while trying to pursue my personal interests or goals?

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 you deny forgiveness to someone who wronged me in our community or workplace settings, which hindered your ability to forgive them and seek 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 intentionally abandon my Catholic faith for any length of time, especially during periods of personal crisis or significant life changes?

This sin represents a deliberate rejection of God's revealed truth and the covenant relationship established through baptism, breaking the promise to remain faithful to Christ and His Church.

Did you deliberately turn away from your faith for any length of time, rejecting God's revealed truth and the covenant relationship established through baptism?

This sin represents a deliberate rejection of God's revealed truth and the covenant relationship established through baptism, breaking the promise to remain faithful to Christ and His Church.

Did you deliberately reject God's love by abandoning your faith for any length of time during periods of spiritual dryness, crisis, or significant life changes?

This sin represents a deliberate rejection of God's revealed truth and the covenant relationship established through baptism, breaking the promise to remain faithful to Christ and His Church.

Impenitence

Have I stubbornly held onto a particular sin, refusing to let go and acknowledge my wrongdoing?

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

Have I clung to my refusal to acknowledge my wrongdoing, refusing to let go of a particular sin?

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

Have I refused to acknowledge my wrongdoing, even when confronted by my conscience?

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

Callousness

Did I speak harsh words to someone who wronged me, thereby denying them forgiveness?

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.

Blasphemy

Did you swear at God during an argument or disagreement?

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

Did you swear to God in anger, frustration, or irritation?

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

Did I swear to God in anger, frustration, or during heated discussions, using words that were unbecoming of reverence?

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

Have I received Holy Communion while knowing myself to be in a state of sin?

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 knowingly receive Holy Communion while still dwelling in sin?

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 use Jesus' name as an exclamation, curse, or in vain conversation?

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 speak the name of God as an expletive, curse, or byword?

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.

Vainglory

Am I more focused on defending my reputation online and gaining human approval through 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 defending my reputation in social media or among friends than pleasing God? (This question maintains the noun "honor" and verb "Am" from the original, while adapting it to be a Catholic examination of conscience relevant to the specified demographic.)

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, especially in situations where it seemed easier to compromise your convictions than to stand up for what you believe?

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.

Ambition

Did I allow my desire for power and dominance to influence how I approach decision-making and interact with others, particularly those in positions of authority or leadership?

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 I let my desire for power influence decisions about who to prioritize, especially in times of scarcity or competition?

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 advancement and recognition in my career influence my decisions and treatment of colleagues?

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 I make accumulating material possessions a driving force in my life, potentially leading me to idolize wealth over 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 possessions, such as wealth and material goods, my primary motivation 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 accumulating wealth and possessions a driving force in my life, leading me to prioritize material comfort 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.

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 I take for granted my personal success and accomplishments, 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.

Have I entertained doubts about God's existence in my own 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 attempt to achieve success or accomplish tasks in my own strength, without relying on God's guidance and divine 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 rely solely on my own abilities in making decisions, without seeking God's guidance and grace in choosing the best course of action?

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 think that relying solely on my own abilities is sufficient to achieve success, neglecting the need for divine guidance in accomplishing tasks?

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 I felt jealous of others' blessings, particularly those related to their career advancement, material possessions, or relationships, 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 wished that others would lose their blessings, such as wealth, success, or happiness, for my own benefit?

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 my own blessings, often fixating on coveting others' possessions?

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

Have I indulged in thoughts of discontent with my own possessions, envying what others have?

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

Incontinence

Did you lack self-control and speak to others with vulgar or inappropriate language, thereby showing a lack of consideration for their dignity and well-being?

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

Did I use language that showed a lack of self-control, speaking to others in ways that were vulgar or inappropriate?

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, perhaps through frequent gatherings at restaurants or social events?

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, demonstrating an excessive attachment to worldly pleasures that rejects the call to temperance?

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 through your deeds, demonstrating 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 financial spending to take precedence over my family's needs 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.

Have I used excessive and wasteful spending on myself to take precedence over my financial responsibilities and the needs of those in my care?

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 my own leisure activities over fulfilling my financial obligations to others, thereby neglecting my 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' faults or private affairs, even if what I shared was true, during social gatherings or online interactions?

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 faults through words, even if what was 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 was shared was true?

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

Impiety

Did I engage in any unnecessary activities on Sunday, such as work-related tasks or volunteering, 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 you fail to show reverence for the Most Blessed Sacrament in your daily interactions?

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, especially during your participation in liturgical events or quiet prayer?

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 always show reverence for Most Blessed Sacrament in times of quiet contemplation or during prayer?

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 rather than seeking reconciliation in interactions with others, potentially leading to damaged relationships and hurtful words?

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

Impurity

Did you use practices, substances, or objects to deliberately avoid pregnancy?

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

Did I use certain practices 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 intentionally used practices, substances, or objects to prevent pregnancy, separating the unitive and procreative purposes of marriage and violating the proper use of one's sexuality?

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

Have I dressed in such a way that respects my dignity?

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

Have I dressed in a way that respects my dignity as a woman?

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

Have I dressed in attire that, while perhaps comfortable for me, does not respect my own dignity and might tempt others to impurity?

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

Infidelity

Did you break your marriage vows by having any intimate relationships outside of your current marriage?

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.

Did I commit infidelity against my marriage vows through any 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.

Did I break my marriage vows through any actions that have brought about the separation from my spouse, either within or outside of our relationship?

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 any non-procreative sexual activity?

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 sexual relationships that were contrary to the natural ordering of sex towards unitive and procreative purposes?

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 others physical or emotional pain, causing them unnecessary suffering?

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

Have I knowingly done something that caused physical or emotional pain to someone else?

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

Adultery

Have I 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.

Have I entertained improper feelings toward someone else's spouse in situations where they have been alone with them?

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

Did I participate 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.

Did I participate 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 I used, consulted with, or cooperated 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 you ever 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 interacted with mediums, fortune tellers, tarot card readers, or Ouija boards, using words to seek guidance from forbidden sources rather than trusting in God's providence?

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

Did you deliberately count on God's mercy without making any effort to change your ways, even after becoming aware of your sinful behavior?

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, counting on God's mercy without making any effort to change, especially during times of spiritual apathy or complacency?

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 count on God's mercy without making any effort to change your lifestyle, treating His forgiveness for granted in thought or attitude?

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 confessing your sins while deliberately delaying going to Mass, despite knowing that God desires your presence in His house?

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 in seeking spiritual guidance while living in a state of sin, presuming you would 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.

Apostasy

Have you explicitly rejected God's existence, either internally through doubts about faith or to others by sharing such views?

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 intellectually through discussions or debates with others, or in private thoughts when considering your faith?

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 God's existence in your thoughts, either privately to yourself or in conversation 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.

Oppression

Did I mistreat others through unjust deeds?

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 you use your authority, power, or influence to mistreat or harass others?

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.

Have you mistreated others?

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.