A Catholic Examination of Conscience
Senior, Committed Mother with Both Minor And Adult Children
In preparing for confession, please read through the examination questions and explanations thoughtfully, reflecting on each point and honestly identifying where you've fallen short of God's call in your life. You may click and remove any irrelevant ones as you proceed. Take mental note of any serious sins that require confession, focusing on being thorough but not scrupulous, then use these insights to make a complete and sincere confession to your priest.
Updated: December 3, 2024
Read Time: 15 minutes
Disobedience
Was I disobedient to my parents in matters that were reasonably expected of me?
As per the fourth commandment, it's a child's duty to respond to parental love, wisdom, and respect with obedience.
Was I disobedient to my parents by failing to show respect for their authority in our home?
As per the fourth commandment, it's a child's duty to respond to parental love, wisdom, and respect with obedience.
When experiencing frustration with individuals within the Catholic community, did I reject the unity of the Church?
Rejecting Church unity due to frustration with individuals is sinful because it confuses the Church's divine nature and eternal truths with the human imperfections of its members, while also violating Christ's prayer "that they may all be one."
Did I reject the unity of the Church when frustrated with those who share my faith but disagree on non-essential matters?
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 by failing to ensure proper burial of human remains, thereby 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 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.
Did I speak ill of 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 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.
Have I, through my actions and attitudes, dishonored my mother and father?
Respecting parental authority helps maintain proper order in families and society, and that parents deserve honor for their role in giving life, nurturing, and forming their children in faith and virtue.
Condoning
Did I discourage fellow Catholics from participating in the Sacraments or Mass?
One of the spiritual works of mercy is to admonish the sinner and to correct them out of love and charity instead of condoning sin.
Did I, in conversation with fellow Catholics, ever discourage them from participating in sacraments or Mass?
One of the spiritual works of mercy is to admonish the sinner and to correct them out of love and charity instead of condoning sin.
Did you lead others, especially fellow Catholics, away from participating in Sacraments or Mass by your 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 persist in error by failing to engage them in necessary conversations about their actions?
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 human remains were not buried?
Failing to advocate for proper burial of human remains is considered sinful as the Church teaches that the body is sacred and deserves reverent burial, with scattering or keeping remains being contrary to the dignity of the human body and resurrection belief.
Did I permit my child to be exposed to bad influences?
Parents have to protect their children's well-being, guarding them from harmful elements that could damage their faith or lead them into sin.
Did I permit my child to be exposed to bad influences in our daily life?
Parents have to protect their children's well-being, guarding them from harmful elements that could damage their faith or lead them into sin.
Did I 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 condone another Catholic to marry outside the church through my words, giving them approval and not offering any correction?
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 to another Catholic to marry outside the Church?
Marriage is a sacrament within the Catholic faith and thus giving approval and not admonishing the action gives scandal by condoning.
Did you endorse or justify abortion?
It's sinful to condone sinful behavior and fail to admonish such sinful actions, especially a grave act that would take a life.
Did I publicly endorse or justify abortion or euthanasia in conversation with others, potentially influencing their views on these sensitive topics?
It's sinful to condone sinful behavior and fail to admonish such sinful actions, especially a grave act that would take a life.
Uncharity
Do I turn away from strangers and those who are displaced, particularly in times when they may be seeking shelter or assistance?
Per the corporal works of mercy, we are to love our neighbors by feeding the hungry and sheltering the homeless and respecting their dignity especially in times of hardship.
Do I turn away from strangers and those who are displaced, especially in times of need?
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?
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 I consider inferior?
This sin dehumanizes people on the margins when we are called to love each other as a child of God as Jesus loved us.
Do you look down upon others based on their job, nationality, or other traits when interacting with those outside your community or social circle?
This sin dehumanizes people on the margins when we are called to love each other as a child of God as Jesus loved us.
Did I prioritize my own interests over others' needs through thoughts that favored my own desires and ambitions?
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 give preference to my own needs over those of others, such as family members or friends in need?
This is considered sinful because excessive self-focus and selfishness violates Christ's command to love our neighbors as ourselves and contradicts the Christian call to practice charity, compassion, and self-sacrifice for others.
Did I prioritize my own needs and desires over those of my family, friends, and 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.
Do I speak to others in ways that show disregard for 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.
Have I lost my patience with others, failing to show them the same kindness and compassion that God shows 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 else to be treated unfairly in my community or among friends?
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 presence, particularly among friends, family, or those who have entrusted me with their care?
This sin violates the principles of justice, charity, and our moral obligation to defend human dignity and protect our neighbors from harm when we have the ability to intervene.
Did you permit others to be treated unfairly in your community, perhaps through tolerating injustices while attending volunteer events or participating in local initiatives?
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 family members, friends, or community members who require care or support?
Failing to help those in need violates Christ's direct command to love our neighbor and care for the poor, effectively refusing to recognize Jesus Himself in the suffering of others.
Have I shown compassion and practical assistance to those in need, particularly through acts of volunteering, charity, or helping neighbors in our community?
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 been lukewarm in my commitment to loving and serving God through my daily activities, such as volunteering or leisure pursuits?
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 of others, judging them unjustly through my words?
Condemning others is a sin of mercilessness because it places oneself in God's role as judge and denies others the same mercy and forgiveness that God extends to all of us.
Did I speak harshly of others?
Condemning others is a sin of mercilessness because it places oneself in God's role as judge and denies others the same mercy and forgiveness that God extends to all of us.
Callousness
Did I fail to provide for someone's basic needs when they were suffering, and I had the means to do so?
As part of the corporal works of mercy, we're called to be merciful and compassionate to those in distress.
Did you fail to provide material assistance, such as food, clothing, or other necessities, to someone who was suffering when you had the means to do so?
As part of the corporal works of mercy, we're called to be merciful and compassionate to those in distress.
Sloth
Did I turn away from those who needed my help in times of sickness?
Neglecting the sick violates Jesus's direct command to care for the ill as if they were Christ himself.
Did I fail to assist those who were in need of my help when they sought it?
Neglecting the sick violates Jesus's direct command to care for the ill as if they were Christ himself.
Did you refuse to provide assistance when it was needed by others?
Neglecting the sick violates Jesus's direct command to care for the ill as if they were Christ himself.
Did you intentionally skip observing the prescribed days of fasting, such as during Ash Wednesday, demonstrating disobedience to Church authority and neglecting your spiritual obligation to practice self-denial?
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.
Have I neglected to guide my child toward knowing Christ in our daily conversations and shared activities, leading to their spiritual growth being hindered?
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 opportunities for my child to deepen their relationship with Christ?
Parents have the duty to be the first teachers of faith to their children, as promised in their child's baptism and outlined in Church teaching as the fundamental responsibility of Christian parenthood.
In what ways have I put my own interests ahead of genuine needs and wellbeing in our family?
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 leisure activities, hobbies, and personal interests ahead of those genuinely important to my family's wellbeing?
Neglecting family duties is considered sinful because it violates both divine law and natural law, where God entrusts us with specific responsibilities to nurture, protect, and care for our family members as part of our fundamental Christian vocation.
Did I fail to provide my child with adequate religious instruction?
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 failed to provide my child's spiritual guidance and formation, particularly in regards to their faith education?
Parents have a primary and sacred duty to pass on the faith to their children, as they are considered their children's first and most important religious teachers who are directly responsible for their spiritual formation and eternal salvation.
Did I fail to teach my child about their faith?
Parents have a primary and sacred duty to pass on the faith to their children, as they are considered their children's first and most important religious teachers who are directly responsible for their spiritual formation and eternal salvation.
Did I neglect daily prayer, failing to prioritize my spiritual life amidst the demands of my daily routine?
This is a sin because daily prayer is our essential lifeline of communication with God - deliberately neglecting it demonstrates ingratitude to our Creator, breaks our fundamental relationship with Him, and violates the First Commandment's call to properly worship God
Did I deprioritize my obligation to attend Mass on Sundays or Holy Days, thereby prioritizing worldly activities over my duty to worship God?
deliberately choosing to skip Mass for non-serious reasons shows disobedience to Church authority, ingratitude for Christ's sacrifice, and places worldly priorities above our highest obligation to worship God.
Did you deprioritize attending Mass on a Sunday or Holy Day of Obligation, choosing to engage in leisure activities or other pursuits 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 obligation, choosing to skip Mass for non-serious reasons, thereby showing disobedience to God's law and placing worldly priorities above my highest obligation 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 seek praise for my charitable giving through sharing it on social media?
Seeking praise for charitable giving is sinful because it transforms an act meant to glorify God and help others into an exercise of pride and self-glorification.
Did I seek praise for my charitable activities?
Seeking praise for charitable giving is sinful because it transforms an act meant to glorify God and help others into an exercise of pride and self-glorification.
Am I more focused on defending my reputation through volunteering, community service, or social activities than pleasing God?
Vainglory corrupts our good actions by doing them for human acclaim rather than for God's glory, making us slaves to others' opinions rather than true servants of God.
Am I more focused on defending my reputation among friends, family, and community than pleasing God? Are you done?
Vainglory corrupts our good actions by doing them for human acclaim rather than for God's glory, making us slaves to others' opinions rather than true servants of God.
Am I more focused on seeking human validation through my leisure activities, hobbies, or social interactions than pleasing God?
Vainglory corrupts our good actions by doing them for human acclaim rather than for God's glory, making us slaves to others' opinions rather than true servants of God.
Did you publicly deny your Catholic faith when faced with social pressure, embarrassment, or ridicule?
This is a public betrayal of Jesus' teaching that "whoever denies me before men, I will also deny before my Father who is in heaven," effectively choosing human respect over fidelity to God.
Theft
Did I intentionally fail to pay my debts?
Intentionally failing to pay debts is sinful because it violates both the seventh commandment against theft and the principle of justice that requires honoring our commitments to others.
Did I 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 assist others in acquiring 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.
Did you help others steal? (Considering the demographic's traits, it is likely that they may have had some form of involvement or influence in helping someone else to commit an act of theft, even if it was not directly involving their own possessions.)
While not stealing yourself, this sin still participates in breaking the seventh commandment and shows disregard for others' rightful property and dignity.
Did you help others steal? This sin still participates in breaking the eighth commandment by showing disregard for their rightful property.
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.
Did I avoid paying others a fair price, especially in my business dealings, investments, or purchases from them?
Failing to pay a fair wage or price is a sin because it violates both the seventh commandment against stealing and the principle of social justice.
Did I avoid doing something that would have resulted in paying others less than they deserved?
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 you take unfair advantage of others by paying them less than they deserved?
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 intentionally misrepresent myself to others through 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 I misrepresent myself to gain an advantage in my relationships, especially those that involve trust and mutual respect?
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 intentionally deceive others for personal gain by misrepresenting myself?
This is considered sinful because deliberately deceiving others for personal gain violates the eighth commandment against bearing false witness and breaks trust in human relationships while failing to reflect Christian virtues of honesty and integrity.
Did I speak falsely about another?
Slander deliberately damages another person's reputation through false statements, violating both the Eighth Commandment against bearing false witness and Christ's command to love our neighbor.
Did I deceive others by withholding truth in interactions, conversations, or relationships?
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 intentionally led 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.
Have I deceived others by intentionally misrepresenting facts to them?
Deceiving others is a form of bearing false witness, damages trust between people, and breaks down human relationships that should reflect God's truth and love.
Have I deliberately exaggerated, misrepresented the truth, or lied about others through words in formal or informal situations?
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 informal situations, such as casual conversations, social media posts, or family gatherings?
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 formal or informal conversations, such as when discussing their activities, accomplishments, or character with friends, family, or acquaintances?
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 harbor any resentment towards those who have wronged me in ways that prevent me from extending love, forgiveness, and compassion to them?
Holding a grudge with enemies is sinful as it directly contradicts Christ's command to "love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you."
Have I allowed resentment to harbor in my heart towards those who have wronged me?
Holding a grudge with enemies is sinful as it directly contradicts Christ's command to "love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you."
Did I ever entertain thoughts that led me to abandon my 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.
Have I, at any point in my life, abandoned my faith for any length of time, intentionally rejecting God's revealed truth and the covenant relationship established through baptism?
This sin represents a deliberate rejection of God's revealed truth and the covenant relationship established through baptism, breaking the promise to remain faithful to Christ and His Church.
Effeminacy
Do I fear to mention Jesus' name in conversations, especially when discussing faith-related topics with others?
Being ashamed or afraid to proclaim Christ represents a denial of our baptismal call to evangelize, shows lack of trust in God's protection, and fails to fulfill Jesus's command to "go and make disciples of all nations."
Do I fear to speak the name of Jesus in a public setting?
Being ashamed or afraid to proclaim Christ represents a denial of our baptismal call to evangelize, shows lack of trust in God's protection, and fails to fulfill Jesus's command to "go and make disciples of all nations."
Have I compromised my beliefs or values to gain others' approval rather than upholding what I know to be right?
Prioritizing human approval over standing firm in God's truth demonstrates both moral cowardice and places human opinion above divine authority.
Did I compromise my beliefs by conforming to societal expectations rather than upholding what I know to be right?
Prioritizing human approval over standing firm in God's truth demonstrates both moral cowardice and places human opinion above divine authority.
Have I compromised my beliefs by prioritizing the opinions of those around me, rather than standing firm in what I know to be right?
Prioritizing human approval over standing firm in God's truth demonstrates both moral cowardice and places human opinion above divine authority.
Did I remain silent about Church teachings to avoid discomfort among fellow community members, family, and friends?
While it is a hardship and uncomfortable, we should not display softtness, but rather be witnesses to the Truth.
Retaliation
Do I harbor thoughts of retaliation 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 I entertain thoughts that lead me to seek revenge against those who have wronged me in my personal or family life?
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.
Sensuality
Did I desire worldly pleasures more than spiritual growth?
Prioritizing worldly pleasures and experiences over spiritual development is considered sinful as it violates the First Commandment by placing temporal desires above one's eternal relationship with God.
Did I allow fleeting worldly pleasures to overshadow my pursuit of spiritual growth?
Prioritizing worldly pleasures and experiences over spiritual development is considered sinful as it violates the First Commandment by placing temporal desires above one's eternal relationship with God.
Did I use controlled substances to escape my responsibilities?
Using controlled substances deliberately impairs your God-given reason and free will, and an attempt to avoid dealing with life's challenges rather than facing them with God's help.
Did you deliberately use controlled substances to distract yourself 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 let my desires for leisure activities, socializing, or personal enjoyment lead me to prioritize them 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 place my own desires for leisure activities, relaxation, and pleasure above 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 relationship with God secondary to my pursuit of personal comfort and relaxation?
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 you try to lead someone else into doing something sinful, especially in a way that would harm their relationship with God?
Leading others to sin (also called "scandal") is sinful because it actively harms another person's soul by encouraging them away from God, making you spiritually responsible both for your own sin and for potentially damaging another's relationship with God.
Did you try to influence someone else to engage in sinful behavior by your words or 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.
Did I try to make someone else engage in sinful behavior while participating in social gatherings, volunteering, or other community activities?
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 wrongdoings, clinging to them instead?
Impenitence is sinful because refusing to repent is a prideful rejection of God's mercy.
Have I refused to admit my wrongdoing, stubbornly clinging to sin?
Impenitence is sinful because refusing to repent is a prideful rejection of God's mercy.
Blasphemy
Did I ever utter a frivolous oath or swear to God in anger, frustration, or thoughtlessly?
This sin violates the Second Commandment by treating God's holy name with disrespect rather than reverence.
Did you swear in front of others when expressing frustration, anger, or disappointment?
This sin violates the Second Commandment by treating God's holy name with disrespect rather than reverence.
Did I receive Holy Communion while knowingly in a state of mortal sin?
This mortal sin is a form of sacrilege and profanes the real presence of Christ and shows grave disrespect for the sacrament by receiving unworthily.
Did I receive Holy Communion while knowingly in a state of sin due to unresolved conflicts within my family relationships?
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, showing disrespect for the real presence of Christ and His sacrament?
This mortal sin is a form of sacrilege and profanes the real presence of Christ and shows grave disrespect for the sacrament by receiving unworthily.
Did you speak the sacred name of God as a byword or curse in conversation, prayer, or discussion?
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, in conversation or casual speech, used the name of God as a curse or an exclamation?
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 God carelessly or disrespectfully in 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 your desire for power and dominance influence how you treat others, such as family members, friends, or those in positions of authority?
inordinate ambition and the obsession with power corrupts the soul by placing our desire to dominate and control above God's authority, turning us away from humble service and toward prideful self-exaltation.
Did my pursuit of prominence in volunteer work or community leadership lead me to use others for personal gain or advantage?
inordinate ambition and the obsession with power corrupts the soul by placing our desire to dominate and control above God's authority, turning us away from humble service and toward prideful self-exaltation.
Have I let my desire for power and dominance influence my interactions with others in community settings, such as volunteer work or social gatherings?
inordinate ambition and the obsession with power corrupts the soul by placing our desire to dominate and control above God's authority, turning us away from humble service and toward prideful self-exaltation.
Greed
Have I made accumulating wealth, possessions, and material comforts the driving force behind my decisions and actions?
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 accumulation of material possessions and wealth a driving force in my life, leading me to prioritize them over trust in God's providence?
This sin makes money an idol that replaces trust in God's providence, turning what should be a tool for good into an object of worship.
Oppression
Have I mistreated, harassed, or discriminated against others through my words or actions, particularly in situations where I have exercised authority or power over them?
It's a sin to execute an unjust and cruel exercise of power or authority over others instead of respecting the God-given dignity of every human person.
Lust
Did I reduce others to their appearance, usefulness, or what they could do for me, rather than seeing them as beloved children of God?
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 objectify others in my daily interactions, 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 engaged in actual or simulated sexual acts outside of marriage through words, actions, or intentions?
While our sexual nature is a gift, using it to indulge in sensual pleasures is sinful as it's ordered for a particular purpose within marriage.
Autonomy
Did I take for granted the good things in my life, forgetting to acknowledge their source in God's providence?
Believing that one's blessings are due to one's own self-sufficiency and determination is a sin as it is a rejection of recognizing Divine Providence as being ultimately responsible.
Did you take for granted the good things in your 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 entertain doubts about God's existence through my thoughts?
Deliberately entertaining doubts about God's existence is a sin against faith because it questions the most fundamental truth of our faith and shows a lack of trust in God's clear self-revelation through creation, scripture, and the Church's teachings.
Did I entertain doubts about God's existence through my thoughts, readings, or conversations?
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 rely solely on my own abilities in managing financial uncertainty, failing to acknowledge our complete dependence on 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.
Have I relied solely on my own abilities in navigating life's challenges, rather than acknowledging and surrendering to God's guidance and providence?
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 fortunes and secretly wished they would lose them?
Envy leads us to have discontent for another's possessions so we won't feel the pain of comparison or perceived lack in our own lives.
Have I been discontent with my own blessings and fixated on coveting others' 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 inappropriate language, possibly during social gatherings or conversations at home?
This sin of incontinence shows a lack of self-restraint and violates the dignity of others.
Did you lack self-control in speaking to others with words that dishonored their dignity?
This sin of incontinence shows a lack of self-restraint and violates the dignity of others.
Did you lack self-control and speak to others with vulgarity in social settings, such as coffee shops or community centers?
This sin of incontinence shows a lack of self-restraint and violates the dignity of others.
Gluttony
Did I overindulge in eating or drinking beyond what's reasonable when spending time at home, particularly during gatherings with family or friends?
This sin of gluttony demonstrates an inordinate attachment to worldly pleasures and rejects the call to temperance.
Prodigality
Have I excessive and wasteful risk-taking, such as excessive gaming or betting, to take precedence over my financial obligations or family needs?
This sin violates the virtue of stewardship by recklessly risking resources God has entrusted to us, while potentially harming our ability to provide for family and those in need.
Have I excessively indulged in gambling, prioritizing it over my financial responsibilities towards 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 sharing others' private affairs, even if what I shared was true?
Gossip violates human dignity and charity by harming others' reputations for our own entertainment or pride.
Have I taken pleasure in sharing others' private affairs, even if what was shared was true?
Gossip violates human dignity and charity by harming others' reputations for our own entertainment or pride.
Have I taken pleasure in sharing others' private affairs, even if what I shared was true, during social gatherings or through conversations with friends?
Gossip violates human dignity and charity by harming others' reputations for our own entertainment or pride.
Impiety
Did I work on a holy day, such as Sunday, 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 always show reverence for Most Blessed Sacrament in my daily life, even when it was convenient or unnoticed by others?
This sin is in failing to show proper reverence demonstrates a lack of faith, respect, and proper worship due to God.
Did I fail to always show reverence for Most Blessed Sacrament, especially in times of quiet contemplation or special devotions?
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, particularly in moments of silence or quiet contemplation?
This sin is in failing to show proper reverence demonstrates a lack of faith, respect, and proper worship due to God.
Anger
Have I nursed anger or held onto feelings of rage rather than extending forgiveness to those close to me, such as my loved ones, family members, or friends?
Uncontrolled anger corrupts our own heart, damages our relationship with both God and neighbor.
Impurity
Have I used certain practices, substances, or objects to prevent pregnancy?
This sin intentionally separates the unitive and procreative purposes of marriage and violates the proper use of one's sexuality.
Did you use practices, substances, or objects that could prevent pregnancy in certain situations?
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?
This sin intentionally separates the unitive and procreative purposes of marriage and violates the proper use of one's sexuality.
Have I dressed in a way that respects my dignity, avoiding attire that is exceptionally revealing or indecent?
Wearing attire that's exceptionally revealing or indecent violates chastity and beckons sins from others.
Have I dressed in a way that is modest and respectful, avoiding attire that could be perceived as immodest or indecent?
Wearing attire that's exceptionally revealing or indecent violates chastity and beckons sins from others.
Have I dressed in a way that immodestly reveals my body, tempting lustful thoughts from others?
Wearing attire that's exceptionally revealing or indecent violates chastity and beckons sins from others.
Infidelity
Did I break any vows of fidelity in my marriage?
Fidelity in marriage is viewed as a sacred covenant made before God - not just a contract between people, thus breaking vows is seen as a betrayal of both divine and human trust.
Have I broken my marriage vows, particularly in regards to fidelity and trust within our relationship?
Fidelity in marriage is viewed as a sacred covenant made before God - not just a contract between people, thus breaking vows is seen as a betrayal of both divine and human trust.
Fornication
Did I have any non-procreative sex through actions outside of a sacramental marriage?
While the sexual natures are a gift, it's a sin to stray away from their ordering toward the unitive and procreative nature within marriage.
Have I entertained inappropriate feelings towards someone else's spouse within my social circle?
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.
Violence
Have I knowingly acted in ways that brought pain or suffering to others through my words, actions, or decisions?
When we deliberately harm others, we attack their God-given dignity.
Curiosity
Have I entertained improper thoughts toward someone else's spouse, especially in social settings where we often interact or share experiences?
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.
Lukewarmness
Have I been unmotivated or halfhearted in my prayer life, neglecting to make time for God amidst my daily activities?
We tend to sin by failing in effort to know and love God while exerting other efforts on worldly things.
Sorcery
Have you ever interacted with mediums, fortune tellers, tarot card readers, or Ouija boards?
This sin is a violation of the First Commandment because it attempts to bypass God's providence and divine will by seeking supernatural knowledge through forbidden means, effectively placing trust in occult practices rather than in God.
Have I interacted with mediums, fortune tellers, tarot card readers, or Ouija boards through words, such as consulting them for guidance on my life's journey?
This sin is a violation of the First Commandment because it attempts to bypass God's providence and divine will by seeking supernatural knowledge through forbidden means, effectively placing trust in occult practices rather than in God.
Have I interacted with mediums, fortune tellers, tarot card readers, or Ouija boards through words, seeking guidance from them rather than trusting in God?
This sin is a violation of the First Commandment because it attempts to bypass God's providence and divine will by seeking supernatural knowledge through forbidden means, effectively placing trust in occult practices rather than in God.
Did I entertain doubts about God's existence through idle thoughts, conversations, or media consumption that led me away from trust in His clear self-revelation?
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.
Presumption
Did you deliberately persist in sinful behavior, counting on God's mercy without making any effort to change your heart or actions, especially when it comes to loving and serving others?
Presumption of God's mercy is a sin against hope because it takes His forgiveness for granted without true repentance or effort to amend one's life, showing disrespect for divine justice and mercy.
Did you deliberately count on God's mercy, without making any effort to change your sinful ways, showing disrespect for His forgiveness?
Presumption of God's mercy is a sin against hope because it takes His forgiveness for granted without true repentance or effort to amend one's life, showing disrespect for divine justice and mercy.
Did you deliberately persist in sinful behavior, counting on God's mercy without making any effort to change your relationship or family dynamics?
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, particularly those related to presumption, while being aware of the necessity for timely repentance?
Deliberately delaying confession while in mortal sin is a serious offense because it recklessly endangers your soul's salvation, shows contempt for God's mercy through the sacrament of reconciliation, and demonstrates prideful presumption that you'll have time later to repent.
Did you put off going to confession while struggling with the weight of your own guilt?
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 put off going to confession while aware of serious sin, underestimating the importance of seeking forgiveness through this 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.
Apostasy
Have you explicitly rejected the existence of God, either through your own thoughts 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 your internal thoughts or verbal expressions to others?
Denying God's existence after having been baptized apostasy is one of the gravest sins possible because it is declaring the Author of Life and Source of all being to be non-existent, which directly contradicts both reason and divine revelation.