A Catholic Examination of Conscience
35-44 Widowed Woman
In preparing for confession, please read through the examination questions and explanations thoughtfully, reflecting on each point and honestly identifying where you've fallen short of God's call in your life. You may click and remove any irrelevant ones as you proceed. Take mental note of any serious sins that require confession, focusing on being thorough but not scrupulous, then use these insights to make a complete and sincere confession to your priest.
Updated: December 3, 2024
Read Time: 13 minutes
Disobedience
Was I disobedient to my parents in regard to their rightful authority, especially when they offered guidance or directives that would have benefited me?
As per the fourth commandment, it's a child's duty to respond to parental love, wisdom, and respect with obedience.
Did I reject the unity of the Church when frustrated by those who share my faith, yet struggle to live it?
Rejecting Church unity due to frustration with individuals is sinful because it confuses the Church's divine nature and eternal truths with the human imperfections of its members, while also violating Christ's prayer "that they may all be one."
Did I skip obligatory days such as Ash Wednesday, failing to practice self-denial and penance during sacred times?
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 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 speak disrespectfully about the Church?
Mocking the church shows contempt for Christ's established institution on earth, disrespects the Body of Christ, and undermines the Church's divine authority as guided by the Holy Spirit.
Have I, through my actions and attitudes, dishonored my mother?
Respecting parental authority helps maintain proper order in families and society, and that parents deserve honor for their role in giving life, nurturing, and forming their children in faith and virtue.
Have I dishonored my mother and father through my attitudes, words, and deeds?
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, disobeyed the authority given to me by God for 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.
Condoning
Did I lead other Catholics to believe it is acceptable to stay away from Sacraments or Mass, through 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 lead other Catholics astray by saying nothing to them about missing Mass or Sacraments?
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 lead fellow Catholics away from participation in sacraments, such as Mass, through 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 permit my child to continue in error by avoiding a difficult conversation, perhaps out of fear or discomfort?
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 scattered instead of 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 condone another Catholic to marry outside the Church through my silence or lack of opposition?
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 approval, through words, to another Catholic who was considering marrying outside of the Church?
Marriage is a sacrament within the Catholic faith and thus giving approval and not admonishing the action gives scandal by condoning.
Did I give silent approval through words to another Catholic who chose to marry outside the Church?
Marriage is a sacrament within the Catholic faith and thus giving approval and not admonishing the action gives scandal by condoning.
Uncharity
Do I turn away from those who are homeless or 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 I turn away from those who are homeless, without offering them 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 I look down upon others based on their job, nationality, or other trait that might distinguish them from me?
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 occupation, nationality, or other characteristics that are beyond their control?
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 you prioritize your own interests over the needs of those in your life who are struggling?
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 let my own interests overshadow the needs and well-being 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.
Do I speak to others in a way that disrespects their dignity as beloved 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 permit someone else to be treated unfairly in situations where I could have intervened?
This sin violates the principles of justice, charity, and our moral obligation to defend human dignity and protect our neighbors from harm when we have the ability to intervene.
Did I stand by while someone else was treated unfairly?
This sin violates the principles of justice, charity, and our moral obligation to defend human dignity and protect our neighbors from harm when we have the ability to intervene.
Did I permit someone to be treated unfairly in my daily life, particularly in situations where I had the ability to intervene?
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 shown compassion and practical assistance to those in need, such as neighbors, acquaintances, or strangers who have requested help?
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 need through practical assistance, despite any potential feelings of isolation or loneliness that may arise from widowhood?
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 demonstrated compassion through practical assistance to those in my daily life, such as neighbors, acquaintances, or strangers who are struggling?
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 growing in my faith without being motivated by a sincere desire to deepen my relationship with God?
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 seeking God's will for me, even when engaged in activities that bring joy and fulfillment?
We tend to sin by failing in effort to know and love God while exerting other efforts on worldly things.
Merciless
Have I spoken harsh judgments against 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 I neglect those who were ill and needed my assistance?
Neglecting the sick violates Jesus's direct command to care for the ill as if they were Christ himself.
Did I withhold assistance from those in my community who were ill and needed my aid?
Neglecting the sick violates Jesus's direct command to care for the ill as if they were Christ himself.
Have I failed to provide my child(ren) with a deep knowledge of Christ, despite being capable and having the opportunity to guide them?
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 provide my child with opportunities for spiritual growth, such as introducing them to Christ in their 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.
In what ways have I put my own interests ahead of genuine needs and well-being in my life?
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 genuine needs and wellbeing in others?
Neglecting family duties is considered sinful because it violates both divine law and natural law, where God entrusts us with specific responsibilities to nurture, protect, and care for our family members as part of our fundamental Christian vocation.
In what ways have I put my own interests ahead of my genuine relationships with others?
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 instruct my child in 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 you neglect your responsibility to share God's love and teachings with others?
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 communicate with God through daily prayer?
This is a sin because daily prayer is our essential lifeline of communication with God - deliberately neglecting it demonstrates ingratitude to our Creator, breaks our fundamental relationship with Him, and violates the First Commandment's call to properly worship God
Did you deprioritize your obligation to worship God on a Sunday or Holy Day of 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 my Sunday or Holy Day of Obligation Mass attendance, allowing worldly priorities to take precedence over worshiping God?
deliberately choosing to skip Mass for non-serious reasons shows disobedience to Church authority, ingratitude for Christ's sacrifice, and places worldly priorities above our highest obligation to worship God.
Did I deprioritize attending Mass on a Sunday or Holy Day of Obligation for frivolous reasons, showing disdain for God's call to worship Him?
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 give alms to gain admiration from others?
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 give alms in such a way that others might think highly of me?
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 seeking praise and validation from others through my solo activities, hobbies, and passions than pleasing God?
Vainglory corrupts our good actions by doing them for human acclaim rather than for God's glory, making us slaves to others' opinions rather than true servants of God.
Am I more focused on seeking human praise for my accomplishments rather than doing them solely to please God?
Vainglory corrupts our good actions by doing them for human acclaim rather than for God's glory, making us slaves to others' opinions rather than true servants of God.
Am I more focused on seeking validation and approval from others for my accomplishments, rather than doing them solely to please 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.
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 I 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 you help others steal something?
While not stealing yourself, this sin still participates in breaking the seventh commandment and shows disregard for others' rightful property and dignity.
Did I encourage others to steal? (Considering the demographic's traits and experiences, it is likely that they value independence and personal choices over peer influence. However, this does not necessarily mean they would never get involved in a situation where they might encourage someone else to engage in dishonest behavior.)
While not stealing yourself, this sin still participates in breaking the seventh commandment and shows disregard for others' rightful property and dignity.
Did I enable others to steal through my actions?
While not stealing yourself, this sin still participates in breaking the seventh commandment and shows disregard for others' rightful property and dignity.
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 taken possession of something that does not 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 you avoid paying others a fair price for goods or services?
Failing to pay a fair wage or price is a sin because it violates both the seventh commandment against stealing and the principle of social justice.
Did I avoid paying others a just price 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.
False Witness
Did I misrepresent myself to others through my words in order 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, particularly in online interactions where trust is built through authenticity and honesty?
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 others through my words in order to achieve a personal gain?
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 lead others to believe something that was not true through my words or actions?
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 say something to others that was untrue?
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' actions, experiences, or circumstances in conversations or online interactions?
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' thoughts, actions, or circumstances in personal or online 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 people in my life, such as friends, acquaintances, or those I interact with online, especially in situations where honesty was expected?
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 you 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, which would be an act of defiance against God's plan for my life?
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.
Have I harbored resentment towards individuals who have wronged me?
Holding a grudge with enemies is sinful as it directly contradicts Christ's command to "love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you."
Did I harbor any resentment towards those who have caused me pain or sorrow?
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 in my heart towards those who have wronged me, holding onto negative feelings rather than choosing to forgive and love them as Christ taught?
Holding a grudge with enemies is sinful as it directly contradicts Christ's command to "love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you."
Did I deny forgiveness to someone who had wronged me?
Refusing to forgive others is sinful because it contradicts Jesus's direct command to forgive and His example of mercy, while also blocking God's forgiveness of our own sins.
Did you withhold pardon from someone who wronged you?
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 faith for any length of time, thereby deliberately rejecting God's revealed truth?
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 I ever intentionally reject God's truth through thoughts that led me to abandon my Catholic faith, even if only for a short 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.
Did you entertain thoughts that led to abandoning your Catholic faith for any length of 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 I fear to say the name of Jesus and preach the gospel to others in quiet solitude, preferring the comfort of my own thoughts over the risk of sharing His message?
Being ashamed or afraid to proclaim Christ represents a denial of our baptismal call to evangelize, shows lack of trust in God's protection, and fails to fulfill Jesus's command to "go and make disciples of all nations."
Did you compromise your beliefs to gain others' approval rather than standing firm in what you know is right, especially when it comes to expressing opinions or taking a stance that may go against popular sentiment?
Prioritizing human approval over standing firm in God's truth demonstrates both moral cowardice and places human opinion above divine authority.
Have I compromised my beliefs by prioritizing what others think is right over upholding what I know to be true, even if it means going against the majority?
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 conflict or discomfort in social situations?
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 expressing my authentic thoughts and opinions, especially when others were publicly discussing or debating them?
While it is a hardship and uncomfortable, we should not display softtness, but rather be witnesses to the Truth.
Greed
Do I constantly think about acquiring new possessions, even if it means diverting resources from more important goals or values?
From a Catholic perspective, obsessing over possessions is considered sinful because it makes material things an idol that takes precedence over God and prevents spiritual growth while hindering one's ability to be generous and detached from worldly goods.
Did I make wealth a driving force in my life?
This sin makes money an idol that replaces trust in God's providence, turning what should be a tool for good into an object of worship.
Did I make wealth an accumulation that occupies a place of priority in my life?
This sin makes money an idol that replaces trust in God's providence, turning what should be a tool for good into an object of worship.
Have I made wealth and material possessions an ultimate goal in my life?
This sin makes money an idol that replaces trust in God's providence, turning what should be a tool for good into an object of worship.
Retaliation
Do I harbor thoughts of retaliation against others when faced with perceived injustices?
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.
Prodigality
Have I given too much attention to distractions that lead me away from spiritual growth and service?
Wasteful pursuits squander the precious time God has given us for meaningful spiritual growth and service to others.
Have I put excessive and wasteful use of my financial resources above my responsibilities to provide for myself and those in need?
This sin violates the virtue of stewardship by recklessly risking resources God has entrusted to us, while potentially harming our ability to provide for family and those in need.
Sensuality
Did I desire worldly pursuits over growth in spiritual formation?
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 entertainment, leisure, or social experiences over growth in my faith and spiritual well-being?
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 diversions and amusements 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.
Did I use controlled substances to detach from reality?
Using controlled substances deliberately impairs your God-given reason and free will, and an attempt to avoid dealing with life's challenges rather than facing them with God's help.
Did you deliberately use controlled substances to detach from reality?
Using controlled substances deliberately impairs your God-given reason and free will, and an attempt to avoid dealing with life's challenges rather than facing them with God's help.
Did I use controlled substances to detach from my 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.
Do I prioritize my own desires for relaxation, leisure activities, and sensual pleasures over time spent in meaningful relationships with God?
This sin makes idol of physical or emotional gratification, turning what should be a gift from God into the primary focus of one's life, displacing God as the center and highest good.
Do I prioritize my own sensual desires over my relationship with God?
This sin makes idol of physical or emotional gratification, turning what should be a gift from God into the primary focus of one's life, displacing God as the center and highest good.
Do I allow my own desires for relaxation, entertainment, and leisure activities to overshadow my relationship with God?
This sin makes idol of physical or emotional gratification, turning what should be a gift from God into the primary focus of one's life, displacing God as the center and highest good.
Scandal
Did I try to lead someone else into doing something sinful?
Leading others to sin (also called "scandal") is sinful because it actively harms another person's soul by encouraging them away from God, making you spiritually responsible both for your own sin and for potentially damaging another's relationship with God.
Did I try to lead someone else into doing something that would be considered sinful, causing them to stray from God's will?
Leading others to sin (also called "scandal") is sinful because it actively harms another person's soul by encouraging them away from God, making you spiritually responsible both for your own sin and for potentially damaging another's relationship with God.
Did I encourage someone else to engage in sinful behavior through my actions?
Leading others to sin (also called "scandal") is sinful because it actively harms another person's soul by encouraging them away from God, making you spiritually responsible both for your own sin and for potentially damaging another's relationship with God.
Impenitence
Have I refused to admit my wrongdoing, even in my thoughts, when confronted with my own sinful behavior?
Impenitence is sinful because refusing to repent is a prideful rejection of God's mercy.
Callousness
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 in my life 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.
Blasphemy
Did I receive Holy Communion while knowingly in a state of serious personal turmoil?
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 grave sin, causing harm to God's presence within me?
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.
Have I spoken the name of God disrespectfully in conversation, using it as a byword or curse?
This is sinful as using God's holy name carelessly or disrespectfully shows contempt for His divine nature and fails to give proper honor to the sacred name of God, which should only be used in prayer, worship, or respectful discussion.
Have I spoken the name of Jesus or God, not in reverence but as a careless expression?
This is sinful as using God's holy name carelessly or disrespectfully shows contempt for His divine nature and fails to give proper honor to the sacred name of God, which should only be used in prayer, worship, or respectful discussion.
Ambition
Did I allow my desire for power and dominance to influence my relationships, career decisions, and treatment of others in ways that were driven by pride rather than humility?
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 and dominance influence my relationships, especially in situations where I had control over decisions or outcomes?
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 how I approach leadership roles, potentially leading me to prioritize self-interest over the well-being of 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.
Lust
Have I reduced others to their appearance, usefulness, or what they could do for me, rather than seeing their full humanity?
While not sexual in nature, this sin is still a form of lust in that it objectifies others who are created in God's image and possesses inherent dignity,
Have you reduced others to mere objects or instruments, valuing their utility for personal gain over their inherent dignity and worth?
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 sensual 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 had actual or simulated sexual acts outside of marriage, through viewing, reading, speaking, or other deeds that foment lust in my heart?
While our sexual nature is a gift, using it to indulge in sensual pleasures is sinful as it's ordered for a particular purpose within marriage.
Have I engaged in actual or simulated sexual acts outside of marriage through deeds that are motivated by lust?
While our sexual nature is a gift, using it to indulge in sensual pleasures is sinful as it's ordered for a particular purpose within marriage.
Autonomy
Did I attribute the good things in my life solely to my own efforts and abilities, forgetting to acknowledge 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 God's role in my daily life, forgetting to acknowledge His presence and providence in every aspect of my activities?
Believing that one's blessings are due to one's own self-sufficiency and determination is a sin as it is a rejection of recognizing Divine Providence as being ultimately responsible.
Did I attribute my personal achievements and successes solely to my own hard work and determination, forgetting to acknowledge God's guidance and providence in my life?
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 solely rely on my own abilities without acknowledging God's role in shaping me?
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 solely rely on my own abilities, attempting to orchestrate life's challenges without seeking God's guidance?
Pride is self-reliance repeats Lucifer's original sin of wanting independence from God and fails to acknowledge our complete dependence on divine grace.
Envy
Have I envied others' blessings, especially when they seem to have more success or happiness than me?
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 envied others' possessions and fixated on coveting what they have?
This sin stems from ingratitude for one's own blessings and letting material desires control our hearts.
Incontinence
Did you lack self-control in using words that were vulgar or inappropriate, thereby offending others?
This sin of incontinence shows a lack of self-restraint and violates the dignity of others.
Did I lack self-control and speak to others in a manner that was lacking in reverence for their dignity?
This sin of incontinence shows a lack of self-restraint and violates the dignity of others.
Gluttony
Have you, in your eating or drinking, overindulged beyond what's reasonable?
This sin of gluttony demonstrates an inordinate attachment to worldly pleasures and rejects the call to temperance.
Did I overindulge in eating or drinking, leading to an unhealthy preoccupation with worldly pleasures?
This sin of gluttony demonstrates an inordinate attachment to worldly pleasures and rejects the call to temperance.
Gossip
Have I taken pleasure in sharing others' private affairs through casual conversations, even if what was shared seemed trivial or harmless?
Gossip violates human dignity and charity by harming others' reputations for our own entertainment or pride.
Have I taken pleasure in sharing others' personal struggles, 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 shared details about acquaintances' private lives for entertainment, even if what I said was true?
Gossip violates human dignity and charity by harming others' reputations for our own entertainment or pride.
Impiety
Did I perform work on a Sunday, even though it could have been avoided?
It's irreverent to work on a Sunday as it's a holy day of rest, worship, and a day of protest against the servitude of work and the worship of money (CCC).
Did I use my Sunday for purposes other than rest, worship, and devotion to God when otherwise it could be avoided?
It's irreverent to work on a Sunday as it's a holy day of rest, worship, and a day of protest against the servitude of work and the worship of money (CCC).
Did I fail to show reverence for the Most Blessed Sacrament on solemn occasions and in daily prayer, especially when in a state of spiritual distraction or when alone?
This sin is in failing to show proper reverence demonstrates a lack of faith, respect, and proper worship due to God.
Did I fail to show reverence for Most Blessed Sacrament in times when I was alone, perhaps neglecting a prayer or proper disposition during Mass?
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 participating in quiet contemplation or daily devotions?
This sin is in failing to show proper reverence demonstrates a lack of faith, respect, and proper worship due to God.
Impurity
Did you 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 dressed in a way that objectifies myself?
Wearing attire that's exceptionally revealing or indecent violates chastity and beckons sins from others.
Have I dressed immodestly in public places in ways that respect my own dignity and modesty?
Wearing attire that's exceptionally revealing or indecent violates chastity and beckons sins from others.
Have I dressed in attire that is immodest, revealing, or indecent, thus offending my own dignity?
Wearing attire that's exceptionally revealing or indecent violates chastity and beckons sins from others.
Infidelity
Have you broken your promise of fidelity to yourself in regards to your marriage vows?
Fidelity in marriage is viewed as a sacred covenant made before God - not just a contract between people, thus breaking vows is seen as a betrayal of both divine and human trust.
Fornication
Did I engage in non-marital, non-procreative intimate relations?
While the sexual natures are a gift, it's a sin to stray away from their ordering toward the unitive and procreative nature within marriage.
Violence
Have I knowingly acted in ways that brought pain or suffering to someone else through my words, actions, or deeds?
When we deliberately harm others, we attack their God-given dignity.
Have I knowingly acted in ways that deliberately caused emotional harm 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 feelings towards 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 feelings toward someone else's spouse that are inappropriate for friendship?
This sin undermines the sacred bond of marriage by treating another person as an object of desire rather than respecting their dignity and commitment to their spouse.
Sorcery
Have you interacted with mediums, fortune tellers, tarot card readers, or Ouija boards, seeking guidance through forbidden means 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 presume God's mercy without making any effort to change, counting on His forgiveness despite persisting in 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.
Have you deliberately persisted in sinful behavior, counting on God's mercy without making any effort to change your life and actions, while relying on His forgiveness without truly seeking it through prayer and amendment?
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 taking God's mercy for granted without making any effort to change, assuming His forgiveness would cover your lack of personal growth?
Presumption of God's mercy is a sin against hope because it takes His forgiveness for granted without true repentance or effort to amend one's life, showing disrespect for divine justice and mercy.
Did you procrastinate confessing your sins while in a state of serious offense, thereby recklessly endangering your own soul's salvation?
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 seeking forgiveness for sins committed while prioritizing your own comfort and security?
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.
Resistance Of Truth
Did I deliberately entertain doubts about God's existence through my thoughts, especially in moments of solitude or uncertainty?
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.
Apostasy
Have you explicitly rejected the existence of God, either internally through private thoughts or to others in conversation?
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 discussions 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.