Examination for a 35-44 Widowed Mother with Both Minor And Adult Children

Condoning

Have I, by my words, led other Catholics 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.

Have I, through my words, led other Catholics to feel comfortable 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 use your words to discourage fellow Catholics from participating in Sacraments, such as Mass or receiving Communion?

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 address my child's mistake, allowing them to continue in error, so that I might avoid a potentially 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 I condone a funeral where a loved one's remains were not buried, which would be considered a failure to uphold the dignity 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 condone any funeral where human 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 that could harm their faith?

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

Did I permit my child to be exposed to influences that could lead them into sin?

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 harmful elements, which could damage their faith or lead them into sin?

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

Have I, in my words, condoned another Catholic 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.

Did I give my blessing to another Catholic who chose 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.

Have I given my approval, through words, to another Catholic 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.

Did I ever endorse or justify abortion or euthanasia, either by my words or inaction, which would cause harm to others?

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 in any way, whether through conversation, argument, or public statement, endorse or justify abortion or euthanasia?

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 you turn away from those who are homeless, particularly when you see them in your community?

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 strangers in need, particularly those who are vulnerable due to displacement?

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 look down upon others based on their occupation, 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 I look down upon others based on their job, nationality, social status, 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.

Have I looked 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 let my own needs or desires overshadow the well-being and concerns of those around me?

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 activities over spending quality time with family?

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 treat others with disdain, reflecting a lack of love for them 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.

Have I spoken harshly to others, losing my patience with them?

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 situations where I felt overwhelmed, frustrated, or inconvenienced?

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

Did I permit someone else to be unjustly treated?

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 neglected to assist those who needed assistance?

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 not failed to help those in need, such as family members or friends who could benefit from my assistance?

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 in times of personal crisis or when struggling with significant life changes?

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

Have I shown compassion and practical assistance to those in my life who are struggling, such as neighbors, friends, or acquaintances facing difficulties similar to my own experiences?

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? This is an expansion on how self's lukewarmness regarding faith growth manifests: - In being satisfied with a superficial understanding of one's beliefs, without desiring to delve deeper into its meaning and significance - A lack of curiosity about how God might be calling you to grow or change - Feeling comfortable maintaining the status quo, rather than seeking out new opportunities for spiritual growth

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.

Am I uninterested in deepening my faith, choosing comfort over the transformative love that 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?

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

Merciless

Did I speak harshly to 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.

Callousness

Did you fail to provide necessary support or assistance when someone was suffering, despite having the opportunity 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 fail to extend my resources to someone who was suffering when 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 turn away from caring for someone in my community 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 turn away from caring for someone who was ill, showing indifference to their suffering?

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

Sloth

Did I fail to lend 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.

Have I failed to guide my child toward knowing Christ by neglecting opportunities to share my faith with them in daily life?

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 teach my child about Christ's love and teachings?

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 my faith with my child in ways that would have been available to me?

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

In what ways have I put my own interests ahead of my family's genuine needs and wellbeing by prioritizing personal pursuits over responsibilities to nurture, protect, and care for them?

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 children's genuine needs and wellbeing in our home?

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 the genuine needs and wellbeing of my children, potentially leading to a sense of neglect or lack of care in their lives?

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 fail to provide my child's religious education, thereby depriving them of knowledge and guidance necessary for their spiritual growth?

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 regular opportunities for my child's spiritual growth and education?

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

Did I neglect to prioritize my daily conversation with God?

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

Have I neglected to prioritize daily prayer, potentially straying from my commitment to communicate regularly with God?

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 a Sunday or Holy Day of Obligation due to worldly priorities and distractions?

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 my commitment to regular Sunday Mass, allowing worldly concerns to take precedence over my duty 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.

Vainglory

Did I seek praise when giving alms to others for their benefit, rather than solely to glorify God?

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 for giving to charity through social media?

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

Did I seek 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.

Am I more focused on defending my good name and reputation in society 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 and gaining social approval than pleasing God? (Revised to maintain noun "honor" from original question)

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 validation and admiration from others through my hobbies, interests, or activities than pleasing God?

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

Did you use your words to publicly distance yourself from Catholic teachings when faced with social pressure or discomfort, effectively choosing 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.

Did you publicly distance yourself from your Catholic faith when faced with social pressure or discomfort, choosing 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.

Disobedience

Did I reject the unity of the Church when I became frustrated with individuals in my community who disagree with me?

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."

When experiencing frustration within Church communities, did you reject the unity that Christ prayed for His followers?

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

Did you deliberately skip prescribed days of fasting, such as Ash Wednesday, demonstrating disobedience to Church authority through your actions?

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 against or mock the Church?

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

Did I, in conversation with others, use words that mocked 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 ridiculed 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 and attitudes by failing to show respect for her role in giving me life, nurturing me, 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.

Have I through my actions and attitudes dishonored those who have given me life, nurtured, and formed 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.

Have I, through my deeds, dishonored my mother and father?

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.

Theft

Did I intentionally fail to pay my debts?

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

Did 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 enable 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 assist others in taking something that does not 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.

Have I, through any means, stolen anything that does not belong to me?

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

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

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

Have I avoided paying others a fair price or wage, thereby depriving them of what rightfully belongs to 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 just wage, depriving them of their rightful compensation?

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 any transaction, business deal, or financial matter?

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?

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

Did you misrepresent yourself to gain an advantage through spoken words?

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 speak falsely about another?

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

Have I caused others to be deceived?

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 deceived others through my words, actions, or both?

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 intentionally cause others to think something was true when it was actually false?

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' experiences, feelings, or circumstances in formal or informal conversations?

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

Have I deliberately exaggerated, misrepresented the truth, or lied about others in social situations, such as online platforms, community groups, or conversations with acquaintances?

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, discussions, or interactions within my social circle, community, or professional settings?

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 allow myself to nurture feelings of bitterness towards others 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."

Have I harbored any resentment towards those who have wronged me, particularly when their actions caused me or my loved ones harm?

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, particularly those in my close relationships or social circle?

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 intentionally rejected God's revealed truth by abandoning my Catholic faith for any length of time, especially during periods of spiritual confusion or crisis?

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 ever deliberately reject God's revealed truth through your thoughts regarding your faith during a difficult time?

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.

Effeminacy

Do you fear to speak the name of Jesus, especially when opportunities arise through your relationships, community service projects, or daily conversations?

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 you fear to share the name of Jesus in social media platforms, news sites, or conversations with acquaintances?

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 values by prioritizing others' approval, rather than standing firm in what I know to be right?

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 among friends, family, or community members?

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

Did I intentionally remain silent about Church teachings to avoid discomfort among my community, friends, or family members?

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

Did I remain silent about Church teachings to avoid discomfort among my community, friends, or loved ones?

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

Retaliation

Do I harbor thoughts of retaliation in my heart 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 harbor desires for personal retaliation against others in my thoughts?

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

Lust

Did I let my imagination engage with or fantasize about pornography?

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

Have you allowed yourself to be exposed to, or have engaged in thoughts about, 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 for who they truly are?

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, appearance, or potential in my thoughts, rather than seeing them for who they truly are?

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, particularly those in your community or social circle, to their usefulness or appearance rather than seeing them as full individuals 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 had actual or simulated sexual acts outside of marriage?

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

Have I engaged in 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.

Sensuality

Did I desire worldly experiences over growth in faith during leisure time activities?

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

Did I desire worldly pleasures over spiritual growth?

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

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 indulge in habits that distract me from my responsibilities and God-given purpose?

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

Did you use controlled substances to detach from reality? In this context, 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.

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 and pleasures over my time with God, turning what should be a gift from Him into the primary focus of my life?

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

Do I make my desires for personal enjoyment, relaxation, and leisure activities take precedence over my commitment to prayer, devotion, and serving 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 allow my desires for pleasure and relaxation to take precedence over spending quality time with God in prayer and contemplation?

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.

Scandal

Did I use my influence, guidance, or example to encourage someone else to commit a sinful act?

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

Did you try to encourage someone else, through your words or actions, to engage in sinful behavior?

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

Impenitence

Have I continued to harbor a particular sin, unwilling to acknowledge my wrongdoing?

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

Have I clung to my own stubbornness, refusing to admit my wrongdoings?

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

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

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

Blasphemy

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

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 thoughtlessness?

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

Did you receive Holy Communion while knowingly being in a state of grave 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 receive Holy Communion while knowingly in a state of sin, potentially showing disrespect for the sacrament and its sacred meaning?

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 the name of Jesus or God to express frustration, anger, or disgust in your conversations?

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 Jesus or God in a manner that shows disrespect, irreverence, or carelessness?

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

Ambition

Did I let my desire for power and dominance influence how I prioritize decisions that affect others?

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

Did my pursuit of leadership roles or seeking to be in charge influence how I treat others?

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

Have I allowed my desire for power and dominance to influence how I lead or guide others, possibly leading them astray from what is truly best for their well-being?

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.

Oppression

Did I mistreat 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.

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 the blessings 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 good fortune in life, forgetting to acknowledge its 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 harbor doubts about God's existence in my own mind?

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 accomplish tasks, projects, or goals without first seeking God's guidance and wisdom in my own strength and abilities?

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 to navigate life's challenges, failing to acknowledge my complete dependence on God's grace?

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

Did I put all my trust in my own abilities and failed to acknowledge God's role in my accomplishments?

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 envious of others' possessions, wishing 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 felt discontent for others' blessings, secretly wishing 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 been fixated on coveting others' possessions through my thoughts, particularly when comparing them to what I have?

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

Incontinence

Did I lack self-control in expressing myself with inappropriate words?

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

Did you lack self-control and speak to others with words that were hurtful, unbecoming, or contrary to what is fitting for a Christian?

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, potentially prioritizing my own desires over a sense of moderation and self-control?

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

Did you overindulge in eating or drinking, allowing your desire for pleasure to exceed what is reasonable?

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, leading to an inordinate 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 recklessly prioritized wasteful gambling over my financial responsibilities, putting my own needs before those of my family?

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 placed excessive financial risks on my family's well-being, compromising their needs and security?

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 money that could have been better allocated to support my family's needs, such as providing for their education or well-being, for wasteful or excessive gambling?

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

Gossip

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

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

Have I taken pleasure in sharing criticisms or private matters about others, 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 discussing others' faults through conversations, social media, or other online platforms?

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

Anger

Have I nursed anger or held onto feelings of rage rather than seeking reconciliation with loved ones?

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

Have I nursed anger or held onto feelings of rage towards others, potentially damaging our relationship and my own heart, rather than seeking reconciliation and forgiveness?

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

Impurity

Have you used 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 practices or substances to prevent pregnancy in a manner that separates the unitive and procreative purposes of marriage, thus violating the proper use of your 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 a way that respects my own dignity, especially considering how such attire might be perceived by others?

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

Have I dressed in a way that is immodest for me, which could tempt impurity?

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

Infidelity

Have I intentionally broken my marriage vows through any actions, thoughts, or words that are contrary to the sacred covenant of fidelity in 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.

Have I broken my marriage vows by engaging in conduct that undermines my commitment to fidelity?

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 have non-procreative sex?

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

Violence

Have I knowingly acted in ways that caused pain or suffering to someone through my deeds?

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

Have I knowingly acted in ways that intentionally caused emotional pain to someone else, such as through my words or actions?

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

Have I knowingly acted in ways that caused intentional harm or pain to others?

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

Adultery

Have I entertained inappropriate feelings toward someone'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.

Murder

Did I participate in actively taking part 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 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.

Presumption

Did you deliberately persist in thinking that God's mercy would automatically cover your lack of effort to change, without sincerely repenting or making any genuine attempts at improvement?

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 when your lifestyle or habits became a habitual obstacle for growth and spiritual improvement?

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, assuming God's forgiveness without making any genuine effort to change your ways or seek His guidance?

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

Did you procrastinate going to confession while in a state of sin, neglecting your spiritual well-being by delaying repentance?

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 internally or to others through your words or actions that contradict divine revelation?

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 privately to yourself or openly 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 faith in God, either to yourself or 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.

Impiety

Did I fail to show reverence for the Most Blessed Sacrament on all occasions?

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 when visiting Church?

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

Did I fail to show reverence for the Most Blessed Sacrament in my daily encounters?

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

A Catholic Examination of Conscience

35-44 Widowed Mother with Both Minor And Adult Children

Condoning

Uncharity

Lukewarmness

Merciless

Callousness

Sloth

Vainglory

Disobedience

Theft

False Witness

Resent

Effeminacy

Retaliation

Lust

Sensuality

Scandal

Impenitence

Blasphemy

Ambition

Oppression

Autonomy

Envy

Incontinence

Gluttony

Prodigality

Gossip

Anger

Impurity

Infidelity

Fornication

Violence

Adultery

Murder

Sorcery

Presumption

Apostasy

Impiety