Examination for a Senior, Committed Mother with Adult Children

Disobedience

Was I disobedient to my parents through my deeds?

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

Was I disobedient to my parents?

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

Was I disobedient to my parents?

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 struggling to understand the human imperfections of its members during disagreements?

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 condone a funeral where human remains were not buried, showing disrespect for the dignity of the deceased?

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

Did I schedule non-essential work on a Sunday, potentially disrespecting God's holy day of rest?

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

Have I, through my actions and attitudes, dishonored my mother by disrespecting her wisdom and guidance in our relationship?

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

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

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 shown disrespect to my mother by failing to honor her authority?

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 you through words encourage 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.

Did you, through your words, lead other Catholics to disregard their obligations to receive Sacraments or participate in Mass?

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

Did I use words to encourage fellow Catholics to stay away from sacraments, thereby condoning their absence?

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 adult child to continue in error due to fear of having an uncomfortable conversation?

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

Did I permit someone else to be treated unfairly, perhaps by tolerating unjust behavior in social settings or failing to intervene when witnessing mistreatment of others?

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 my child to be exposed to bad influences? Note: The demographic's parental status, age, and relationship traits make this question likely applicable to their experiences.

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 grandchild to be exposed to bad influences?

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

Did I condone another Catholic to marry outside the Church through my words?

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

Did I fail to speak out against another Catholic who chose to marry outside of the Church, potentially giving scandal by condoning their decision?

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

Did I, in my interactions with fellow Catholics, give approval to their 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.

Apostasy

Did I forgo a valid Catholic marriage by entering into a relationship without first seeking a dispensation or ensuring that it was witnessed in the Church?

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

Have you explicitly rejected the existence of God, either through internal doubts or in conversation with others?

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

Have you explicitly rejected the existence of God, either through internal doubts or verbalizing such sentiments to someone who has been entrusted with your faith, such as a spouse or close friend?

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

Have you explicitly rejected the existence of God, either in thought or conversation, while reflecting on your life's journey and the values that have guided you?

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.

Uncharity

Have I turned away from strangers who are displaced, showing little regard for their dignity in times of hardship?

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

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

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

Do I look down upon others based on their job, nationality, or other trait in my thoughts?

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 socioeconomic status, lifestyle choices, or cultural background?

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

Did I prioritize my own activities, such as hobbies like painting or gardening, over opportunities to serve others, especially those in need within my community?

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 you allow your interests to overshadow the needs of others?

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

Have I treated others, including family members and friends, in ways that show disrespect to their dignity as children of God?

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

Did I lose my patience with others, especially when faced with frustrating situations or interactions?

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 conversations that frustrated me, especially when discussing things that are important to me?

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

Did I permit someone to be treated unfairly?

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

Did I permit someone to be treated unfairly in my daily interactions, particularly among those I regularly encounter?

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 helped others when they needed help?

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

Have I helped others when they were in need?

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

Have I not failed to assist those in need when they were deserving of my help?

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

Have I shown compassion and practical assistance to those in my community who are struggling with daily needs?

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

Have I shown compassion and practical assistance to those in need, particularly through volunteering, charitable activities, or other forms of service that demonstrate my love for Christ by caring for His brothers and sisters?

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 complacent in my spiritual growth, settling for mediocrity rather than striving for deeper faith?

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, perhaps prioritizing leisurely activities or personal interests over time spent in devotion and prayer?

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, judging them in a way that denies them God's mercy?

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

Callousness

Did I neglect to help someone in need, who was suffering and required assistance, when I had the means to provide it?

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

Did I omit to assist someone in their time of need, who was suffering when I could have provided help?

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

Did I fail to provide assistance when someone in my community was suffering from poverty, hunger, or homelessness, and I had the means to help?

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

Did you turn away from caring for someone who was ill, neglecting their needs in your community?

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 neglect to visit 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 show indifference to those who were unwell and needed my assistance?

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

Did you deny help to those who were ill?

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

Did I permit my grandchild to continue in error by avoiding a difficult conversation, thereby neglecting my responsibility to guide their spiritual development?

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

Have I failed to introduce my child to Christ through our daily interactions and conversations, thereby neglecting their spiritual upbringing?

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 provide spiritual guidance to my child, leading them further away from Christ?

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

Have I neglected to live out my faith through daily conversations with my child?

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

In what ways have I put my own interests ahead of our family's genuine needs and wellbeing in regards to leisurely activities, hobbies, and social events?

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 our family's genuine needs and wellbeing, possibly prioritizing leisure activities over spending quality time together or meeting obligations that benefit us as a unit?

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 nurturing and prioritizing the genuine needs and wellbeing of those in my care?

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 for my child's religious education in their formative years, potentially depriving them of essential spiritual guidance?

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.

Have I neglected my child's religious education, depriving them of the faith that should be passed down from me as their first and most important spiritual teacher?

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 spend daily quiet time with God, allowing myself to miss out on a deeper relationship with Him?

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 attending Mass on a Sunday or Holy Day of Obligation, choosing to engage in leisurely activities instead?

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, choosing to engage in leisurely activities such as golfing or walking instead?

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 spiritual well-being by choosing to skip Mass on a Sunday or Holy Day of Obligation for non-serious reasons, showing disobedience to God's authority?

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

Vainglory

Did I seek praise in my charitable actions?

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 seeking to draw attention to my generosity?

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 volunteering?

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 public image and gaining recognition from others 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 among friends and acquaintances 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 gaining social approval from friends, family, and community through my activities and achievements rather 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.

Theft

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

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

Did 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 omit paying 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 assist others in stealing?

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

Did I encourage others to steal?

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

Did I assist in someone taking something that did 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 stolen anything that doesn't belong to me, regardless of its value?

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

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

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

Did I avoid paying others a fair price or wage in my daily dealings, such as when purchasing goods or services?

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

Did I avoid paying others a fair price or wage, and if so, was it motivated by a desire to be honest and just in my dealings?

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

Did I avoid paying others a fair price or wage, particularly in situations involving vendors or service providers?

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 I misrepresent myself to gain an advantage in social interactions, perhaps by exaggerating my accomplishments or experiences?

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 intentionally distort the truth about your personal life, relationships, or experiences to gain favor, sympathy, or advantage from others?

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

Did I speak falsely about another person, intentionally damaging their reputation through my words?

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

Did I mislead others 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.

Have I, through my actions, led others to believe something that was not true?

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

Have I deliberately exaggerated, misrepresented the truth, or lied about others' accomplishments, intentions, or experiences in conversations or social interactions?

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

Have I deliberately exaggerated, misrepresented the truth about others 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 conversations, discussions, or social interactions that occurred at home, in public, or online?

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

Resent

Did I become sterilized?

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

Did I become sterilized?

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

Did I become sterilized, an act that could be seen as a 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.

Do I allow envy in my heart to wish others were less successful than me, particularly those who have achieved something that makes me feel inferior or threatened?

Preventing others' success is sinful because it's the resentful desire to deprive others of their blessings because their achievements make us feel inferior or threatened in comparison.

Did I harbor any resentment against those who have wronged me, such as neighbors or acquaintances?

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 against people who have wronged me in our community, family, or personal relationships?

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, causing us to have difficulty resolving our differences?

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 hold onto resentment and refuse to forgive those who wronged me, even in my words?

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.

Have I denied forgiveness to someone through my words, causing them to feel resentful towards me?

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

Did I ever consciously turn away from my Catholic faith, even if only for a short period 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.

Have I at any time deliberately neglected my faith, turning away from 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.

Effeminacy

Do I fear to say the name of Jesus and preach the gospel to others when opportunities arise, even in casual 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 I fear to speak the name of Jesus in casual 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 I fear to proclaim the name of Jesus, especially in casual conversations with friends and 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."

Did I compromise my beliefs to gain others' approval rather than upholding what I know to be right in various aspects of my life, such as relationships, social engagements, or community involvement?

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

Did I compromise my beliefs by valuing the opinions of those close to me over standing firm in what I know is right, rather than upholding God's truth in order to maintain their approval?

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

Did you remain silent about Church teachings to avoid sharing your own perspectives or experiences?

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

Retaliation

Do you harbor thoughts of revenge towards others?

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

Do you harbor thoughts of retaliation towards others?

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

Lust

Have I entertained thoughts of interacting with pornography?

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

Have I ever allowed myself to look at, think about, or interacted with pornography?

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

Did I reduce others to their usefulness, rather than seeing them as full human beings created in God's image?

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

Did I allow my thoughts to objectify others in my social life, reducing them to their usefulness or appearance 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 I had actual or simulated acts outside of marriage that involved lustful deeds towards others?

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 simulated or actual acts of lust outside of marriage?

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

Have I engaged in actual or simulated sensual acts outside of marriage that offend God's law?

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

Imprudence

Have I spent excessive time on meaningless distractions, leading me to squander the precious time God has given me for meaningful spiritual growth and service to others?

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

Have I wasted the time God has given me by engaging in distractions that bring no lasting value?

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

Sensuality

Did you desire worldly experiences over growth in faith, especially in regards to leisure activities such as walking or golfing that have become more of a priority than spiritual development?

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

Did you deliberately use controlled substances to detach from reality, rather than facing life's challenges 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.

Did I use controlled substances to intentionally numb myself from life's challenges?

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 leisurely activities over cultivating a deeper 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 desires for leisurely activities, relaxation, or physical pleasures to become the primary focus of my daily life, displacing my relationship with God?

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

Do I make my own desires for leisurely activities, such as traveling or hobbies, more important than my relationship with God?

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

Did I engage in sensual self-pleasuring?

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

Murder

Have I murdered anyone?

The taking of one's life intentionally violates the fifth commandment and takes away the precious gift of life that was granted by God.

Have I, through my words, ever condoned 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.

Have you participated in an abortion or euthanasia?

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.

Have you participated in an abortion?

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

Impiety

Did you condone a funeral where human remains were not treated with the reverence due to them?

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 fail to always show reverence for the Most Blessed Sacrament when receiving it during Communion, or at 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 the Most Blessed Sacrament, especially during visits to places of worship or Eucharistic celebrations?

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

Scandal

Did I engage in deeds that might lead 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.

Impenitence

Have I refused to acknowledge my own wrongdoing, stubbornly clinging to it?

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

Have I refused to let go of a particular sin, stubbornly holding onto my wrongdoing?

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

Have I refused to acknowledge my own wrongdoing, clinging to it instead of humbly admitting my mistake?

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

Blasphemy

Did I swear to God in a moment of frustration or annoyance?

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

Have I sworn to God?

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

Did I receive Holy Communion while in a state of sin, showing grave disrespect for the sacrament?

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

Did I receive Holy Communion while knowingly in a state of sin that betrayed my trust and relationship with God and others through serious breaches of faith, morals, or duties.

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 used the sacred name of Jesus, Lord God, or any other divine title in my conversation or online interactions as a curse word or a matter of jest?

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 I use the name of Jesus or God in conversation as something trivial or dismissive?

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 you spoken the name of God, such as Jesus or the Lord, in anger, frustration, or careless conversation?

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

Ambition

Did I let my desire for power and dominance influence my decisions, especially in situations where I had to prioritize or assert my will over 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 I allow my desire for power and dominance to influence how I interacted with others, especially in situations where I felt a need to assert control or get my own way?

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 how I lead and treat others, potentially leading to prideful self-exaltation at their expense?

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

Greed

Did I make acquiring wealth and material possessions, such as travel or luxury items, a driving force in my life?

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

Oppression

Have I through my words, actions, or attitudes, mistreated or harassed 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 relationships, 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 comforts of 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 attribute the good things in my life, such as financial stability and good health, solely to my own hard work and diligence, forgetting that God's providence is ultimately responsible?

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

Did you deliberately entertain doubts about God's existence in your thoughts, possibly while engaging in quiet reflection or introspection?

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 trust solely in my own abilities, failing to acknowledge and rely on God's guidance and assistance?

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

Did I rely solely on my own abilities, without acknowledging the need for God's guidance in making decisions about my daily activities and relationships?

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

Have I relied solely on my own abilities, disregarding God's gift of wisdom in making important decisions about my life?

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

Envy

Have I felt envious of others' good fortune, and secretly wished they would lose their blessings?

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 envy in my heart when others achieve success or receive blessings, 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 discontent with what I have, fixating on coveting others' possessions?

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

Have I been discontent with what I have and fixated on coveting possessions?

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

Incontinence

Did I lack self-control and speak to others with vulgar or hurtful language, thus showing a lack of respect for their dignity?

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 with hurtful words that violated their dignity?

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 with vulgarity through conversations, emails, texts, or social media?

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

Gluttony

Did I overindulge in eating or drinking on special occasions or at gatherings where social pressure to indulge might be strong?

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

Did you overindulge in eating or drinking beyond what's reasonable, especially when enjoying leisurely activities such as gardening, traveling, or engaging in hobbies?

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

Did I allow myself to take more than my fair share of food or drink when eating or drinking with others?

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

Prodigality

Have I excessive and wasteful gambling to take precedence over my financial obligations, potentially harming my ability to provide for myself or 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.

Have I prioritized excessive and wasteful gambling over my financial responsibilities, thereby neglecting my duty to provide for myself and others?

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 private affairs or faults of acquaintances, 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 private affairs, even if what I shared was true, through conversations with friends or acquaintances?

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

Have I taken pleasure in sharing confidential information about friends or acquaintances for my own amusement, even if what I shared was true?

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

Anger

Have I nursed anger rather than extending compassion to those closest to me?

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

Have I nursed anger towards someone in my life, rather than seeking reconciliation?

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

Impurity

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

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

Did I use practices 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 use practices to prevent pregnancy, thereby intentionally separating the unitive and procreative purposes of marriage?

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

Have I done something while dressing that has been immodest in a way that respects my dignity?

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

Have I dressed immodestly in a way that respects my dignity before God?

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

Have I dressed immodestly in a way that reveals more than what is modest for someone of my stature?

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

Infidelity

Have I committed infidelity through my deeds that have broken my 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.

Have I entertained feelings of attraction towards someone else who is in a committed relationship, such as a 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.

Fornication

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

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

Did I have any non-marital, non-procreative sexual 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 deeds?

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

Have I deliberately acted in ways that have brought pain or suffering to someone else through my deeds?

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

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

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

Sorcery

Have you used your words to seek guidance from mediums, fortune tellers, tarot card readers, or Ouija boards?

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

Have you, in your leisurely activities, 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.

Did you engage in conversation or interact with those who claim to possess supernatural knowledge or powers, such as mediums, fortune tellers, tarot card readers, or Ouija board operators?

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

Presumption

Did you deliberately count on God's mercy without making any effort to change, thinking that your good habits or past charitable deeds would automatically excuse sinful behaviors?

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 presuming God's mercy, taking it for granted without making any effort to change, especially during times of leisurely activities or after experiencing personal success?

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, expecting forgiveness without making any effort to change your thoughts or actions?

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

Did you procrastinate going to confession, showing a dangerous presumption that your salvation would be somehow secure despite neglecting this essential sacrament?

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 deliberately delay attending to your spiritual needs, such as going to confession, while in a state of sin?

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.

A Catholic Examination of Conscience

Senior, Committed Mother with Adult Children

Disobedience

Condoning

Apostasy

Uncharity

Lukewarmness

Merciless

Callousness

Sloth

Vainglory

Theft

False Witness

Resent

Effeminacy

Retaliation

Lust

Imprudence

Sensuality

Murder

Impiety

Scandal

Impenitence

Blasphemy

Ambition

Greed

Oppression

Autonomy

Envy

Incontinence

Gluttony

Prodigality

Gossip

Anger

Impurity

Infidelity

Fornication

Violence

Sorcery

Presumption