A Catholic Examination of Conscience
Senior, Separated 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: 16 minutes
Disobedience
Was I disobedient to my parents through any deeds in which I failed to heed their guidance, especially when it came to matters of our faith?
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 in regards to their authority and guidance, particularly in matters where their wisdom and counsel would be valuable?
As per the fourth commandment, it's a child's duty to respond to parental love, wisdom, and respect with obedience.
Did I reject Church unity by harboring frustration towards others within the community, confusing their human weaknesses with the divine nature 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."
Have I rejected the unity of the Church when disappointed with others in it?
Rejecting Church unity due to frustration with individuals is sinful because it confuses the Church's divine nature and eternal truths with the human imperfections of its members, while also violating Christ's prayer "that they may all be one."
Have I rejected the unity of the Church through bitter thoughts when frustrated with my own brothers and sisters?
Rejecting Church unity due to frustration with individuals is sinful because it confuses the Church's divine nature and eternal truths with the human imperfections of its members, while also violating Christ's prayer "that they may all be one."
Did you publicly scorn or ridicule the Church, particularly its teachings or authority?
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, as a parent and grandparent, disobeyed the authority of my mother, particularly in regards to my own upbringing and parenting style?
Respecting parental authority helps maintain proper order in families and society, and that parents deserve honor for their role in giving life, nurturing, and forming their children in faith and virtue.
Have I dishonored my mother through my actions, particularly when it comes to respecting her authority and guidance in our family life?
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 condone other Catholics from staying away from Sacraments through 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 allow my own Catholic brothers and sisters to stay away from Sacraments or Mass without encouraging them to receive spiritual nourishment?
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 give other Catholics reason to stay away from the Sacraments 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 continue in error by avoiding difficult conversations, rather than speaking truthfully and guiding them towards a deeper understanding of God's will?
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 neglect to speak truthfully to my child because it was easier to avoid the 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 neglect to address my child's mistaken beliefs in order to avoid 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 condone a funeral where human remains were not given a reverent burial?
Failing to advocate for proper burial of human remains is considered sinful as the Church teaches that the body is sacred and deserves reverent burial, with scattering or keeping remains being contrary to the dignity of the human body and resurrection belief.
Did I condone a funeral by allowing the remains to be disposed of in a manner contrary to Church teachings?
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 you remain silent about Church teachings, allowing social discomfort or conflict to influence your behavior?
While it is a hardship and uncomfortable, we should not display softtness, but rather be witnesses to the Truth.
Did I permit my child to be exposed to bad influences that could undermine their faith or lead them into sin?
Parents have to protect their children's well-being, guarding them from harmful elements that could damage their faith or lead them into sin.
Did I permit my child to be exposed to influences that could damage their faith, leading them into sin?
Parents have to protect their children's well-being, guarding them from harmful elements that could damage their faith or lead them into sin.
Did I permit my child to be exposed to bad influences through their activities, social interactions, or media consumption that could potentially lead them away from our faith?
Parents have to protect their children's well-being, guarding them from harmful elements that could damage their faith or lead them into sin.
Did I give approval to another Catholic through my words that they could marry outside of the Church?
Marriage is a sacrament within the Catholic faith and thus giving approval and not admonishing the action gives scandal by condoning.
Did I give approval by my words to another Catholic who was planning to marry outside of our Church?
Marriage is a sacrament within the Catholic faith and thus giving approval and not admonishing the action gives scandal by condoning.
Did I give my consent to another Catholic by word of mouth, which would have encouraged them to get married outside the Church?
Marriage is a sacrament within the Catholic faith and thus giving approval and not admonishing the action gives scandal by condoning.
Did I, through my words, 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.
Apostasy
Did I, in my past relationships, forgo a valid Catholic marriage?
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 God's existence, either through internal doubts or by expressing such views to others?
Denying God's existence after having been baptized apostasy is one of the gravest sins possible because it is declaring the Author of Life and Source of all being to be non-existent, which directly contradicts both reason and divine revelation.
Have you explicitly rejected the existence of God, either through internal thoughts or external statements to others, without giving due consideration to the significance of denying the Author of Life and Source of all being?
Denying God's existence after having been baptized apostasy is one of the gravest sins possible because it is declaring the Author of Life and Source of all being to be non-existent, which directly contradicts both reason and divine revelation.
Have you explicitly rejected God's existence, either internally or to others, by denying or questioning His presence in your life?
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.
Adultery
Did you forgo a valid Catholic marriage, thus committing adultery through your deeds?
For Catholics, marriage is sacramental and needs to occur in the Church or receive a dispensation if either people are not Catholic.
Have I entertained inappropriate feelings towards someone else's spouse through my interactions or observations in social settings?
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.
Uncharity
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 people who work in certain jobs, come from different nationalities, or have other traits based on their profession, culture, or personal characteristics?
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 judge others based on their occupation, nationality, or other characteristics? (Considering: Have I looked down upon people from different walks of life, treating them with disdain because of who they are or what they do?)
This sin dehumanizes people on the margins when we are called to love each other as a child of God as Jesus loved us.
Did I let my own needs outshine those of others in our shared activities, hobbies, and relationships?
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 make my relationships and interests more important than showing charity to those 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.
Do I harbor thoughts that disrespect others, denying their inherent dignity as beings created in God's image?
Treating others with disrespect denies their inherent dignity as beings created in God's image and violates Christ's command to love one another as He has loved us.
Did I permit someone 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 unjustly?
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 another 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.
Have I neglected to lend my assistance when those around me were in need of help?
Refusing to help those in need violates Jesus's direct command to love our neighbor and practice the works of mercy, as illustrated in the parable of the Good Samaritan.
Have I shown compassion and practical assistance to those in need, particularly those who may be struggling with loneliness, poverty, or other forms of distress?
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 in my deeds to those around me who are struggling, such as neighbors, friends, or family members experiencing financial difficulties, unemployment, illness, or other hardships?
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.
Merciless
Have I spoken words that condemned others, treating them with merciless judgment rather than offering compassion and understanding?
Condemning others is a sin of mercilessness because it places oneself in God's role as judge and denies others the same mercy and forgiveness that God extends to all of us.
Callousness
Did you fail to help those who were suffering when I had the means to do so?
As part of the corporal works of mercy, we're called to be merciful and compassionate to those in distress.
Did I fail to provide aid when someone in my community was struggling, though I had the means to assist them?
As part of the corporal works of mercy, we're called to be merciful and compassionate to those in distress.
Did I neglect someone who was in need while caring for myself?
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.
Gluttony
Did you fail to extend charitable assistance, such as food or financial aid, to someone who was in need 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.
Did I overindulge in eating or drinking beyond what is reasonable, potentially harming my body and neglecting my spiritual well-being?
This sin of gluttony demonstrates an inordinate attachment to worldly pleasures and rejects the call to temperance.
Did you overindulge in eating, drinking, or other pleasures beyond what was reasonable for your personal circumstances?
This sin of gluttony demonstrates an inordinate attachment to worldly pleasures and rejects the call to temperance.
Did I overindulge in eating or drinking beyond what's reasonable, perhaps by consuming excessive treats while visiting family gatherings or engaging in social events?
This sin of gluttony demonstrates an inordinate attachment to worldly pleasures and rejects the call to temperance.
Sloth
Did I turn away from those who needed my help when they were ill?
Neglecting the sick violates Jesus's direct command to care for the ill as if they were Christ himself.
Did I neglect those who were in need of my assistance?
Neglecting the sick violates Jesus's direct command to care for the ill as if they were Christ himself.
Have I neglected to share my faith with my child, leading them 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 failed to teach my child about Jesus' teachings and values?
Parents have the duty to be the first teachers of faith to their children, as promised in their child's baptism and outlined in Church teaching as the fundamental responsibility of Christian parenthood.
Have I failed to share my faith, and therefore Christ, with my child through my words and actions?
Parents have the duty to be the first teachers of faith to their children, as promised in their child's baptism and outlined in Church teaching as the fundamental responsibility of Christian parenthood.
In what ways have I put my own interests ahead of my family's genuine needs and wellbeing?
Neglecting family duties is considered sinful because it violates both divine law and natural law, where God entrusts us with specific responsibilities to nurture, protect, and care for our family members as part of our fundamental Christian vocation.
In what ways have I put my own interests ahead of my family's genuine needs and wellbeing, often prioritizing leisure activities or personal pursuits over time spent nurturing and caring for loved ones?
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 religious instruction and guidance to my child(ren), thereby neglecting their education?
Parents have a primary and sacred duty to pass on the faith to their children, as they are considered their children's first and most important religious teachers who are directly responsible for their spiritual formation and eternal salvation.
Did I neglect teaching my child about their Catholic faith and passing on its traditions?
Parents have a primary and sacred duty to pass on the faith to their children, as they are considered their children's first and most important religious teachers who are directly responsible for their spiritual formation and eternal salvation.
Did I neglect to prioritize my daily relationship with God through prayer?
This is a sin because daily prayer is our essential lifeline of communication with God - deliberately neglecting it demonstrates ingratitude to our Creator, breaks our fundamental relationship with Him, and violates the First Commandment's call to properly worship God
Did I neglect daily prayer, forgetting to cultivate my relationship with God?
This is a sin because daily prayer is our essential lifeline of communication with God - deliberately neglecting it demonstrates ingratitude to our Creator, breaks our fundamental relationship with Him, and violates the First Commandment's call to properly worship God
Did you intentionally deprioritize and skip Mass on a Sunday or Holy Day of Obligation, prioritizing worldly pursuits over your sacred 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 deliberately choose to skip Mass on a Sunday or Holy Day of Obligation, thereby deprioritizing your relationship with God and showing disobedience to Church 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.
Theft
Did you intentionally fail to pay debts owed to others?
Intentionally failing to pay debts is sinful because it violates both the seventh commandment against theft and the principle of justice that requires honoring our commitments to others.
Did you intentionally fail to pay debts owed to others?
Intentionally failing to pay debts is sinful because it violates both the seventh commandment against theft and the principle of justice that requires honoring our commitments to others.
Did I intentionally fail to pay back financial obligations 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 concealing stolen goods?
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? In regards to others, did your actions encourage or facilitate theft by enabling others to take something that didn't 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 I encourage others to steal by my words or actions?
While not stealing yourself, this sin still participates in breaking the seventh commandment and shows disregard for others' rightful property and dignity.
Have I, in my daily life and activities, 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 taken something that doesn't belong to me, regardless of its value?
Theft disrespects the human dignity and property rights of others, breaks trust within communities, and demonstrates both greed and a lack of trust in God's providence.
Have I taken 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 deliberately shortchange others by paying them an unfair price for goods or services?
Failing to pay a fair wage or price is a sin because it violates both the seventh commandment against stealing and the principle of social justice.
Did I avoid paying others a fair price or wage by taking advantage of them through my business dealings?
Failing to pay a fair wage or price is a sin because it violates both the seventh commandment against stealing and the principle of social justice.
Did I deprive others of a fair price for goods or services through my deeds?
Failing to pay a fair wage or price is a sin because it violates both the seventh commandment against stealing and the principle of social justice.
False Witness
Did you deliberately misrepresent yourself to gain an advantage by telling people, perhaps through social interactions or online presence, that you possess qualities or experiences you do not actually have?
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 deceive others through my words 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 deliberately deceive others through my words 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 cause others to believe something about me that was not true by my deeds?
Deceiving others is a form of bearing false witness, damages trust between people, and breaks down human relationships that should reflect God's truth and love.
Did I lead others to believe something about me that was not true through my words, actions, or overall behavior?
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 misled 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 deliberately exaggerated, misrepresented the truth, or lied about others in casual conversations or online interactions?
Bearing false witness puts one's desires over truth, justice, and love of God.
Have I deliberately exaggerated, misrepresented the truth, or lied about others in conversations, interactions, or sharing experiences with friends, family, and community members?
Bearing false witness puts one's desires over truth, justice, and love of God.
Have I deliberately exaggerated, misrepresented the truth, or lied about family members, friends, or acquaintances in formal or informal conversations?
Bearing false witness puts one's desires over truth, justice, and love of God.
Resent
Have I become sterilized?
This is considered sinful because deliberately altering one's fertility represents an act of defiance against God and implies we know better than divine wisdom, placing our desires for control above trust in God's plan for our lives.
Did you become sterilized against God's natural plan for your life?
This is considered sinful because deliberately altering one's fertility represents an act of defiance against God and implies we know better than divine wisdom, placing our desires for control above trust in God's plan for our lives.
Have I held any resentment towards those who have wronged me, or towards myself in similar situations?
Holding a grudge with enemies is sinful as it directly contradicts Christ's command to "love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you."
Did I harbor any resentment towards those who have wronged me, especially in situations where my own needs or interests were hurt?
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 held any grudges against others, allowing resentment to consume my thoughts?
Holding a grudge with enemies is sinful as it directly contradicts Christ's command to "love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you."
Have I clung to resentment, refusing to admit my wrongdoing?
Impenitence is sinful because refusing to repent is a prideful rejection of God's mercy.
Did you withhold pardon from someone who wronged you, thereby refusing to forgive them?
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, through any thought or intention, abandon my 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.
Did I harbor any intention to renounce my Catholic faith for even a moment, by failing to practice or deepen my devotion in accordance with God's revealed truth?
This sin represents a deliberate rejection of God's revealed truth and the covenant relationship established through baptism, breaking the promise to remain faithful to Christ and His Church.
Did you deliberately reject God's revealed truth for any length of time, especially in regards to your faith and spiritual practices?
This sin represents a deliberate rejection of God's revealed truth and the covenant relationship established through baptism, breaking the promise to remain faithful to Christ and His Church.
Effeminacy
Do you fear to say the name of Jesus when sharing your faith with others, especially in casual conversations at family gatherings or community events?
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 when opportunities arise, 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, especially in situations where I may feel pressure from peers or societal expectations?
Prioritizing human approval over standing firm in God's truth demonstrates both moral cowardice and places human opinion above divine authority.
Did you compromise your values and principles to gain the approval of peers, friends, or acquaintances, rather than standing firm in what you know is right?
Prioritizing human approval over standing firm in God's truth demonstrates both moral cowardice and places human opinion above divine authority.
Did I remain silent about Church teachings to avoid discomfort or conflict in situations where speaking up was required?
While it is a hardship and uncomfortable, we should not display softtness, but rather be witnesses to the Truth.
Worldliness
Do I frequently become overly attached to my possessions, allowing them to consume my thoughts and distract me from what is truly important?
From a Catholic perspective, obsessing over possessions is considered sinful because it makes material things an idol that takes precedence over God and prevents spiritual growth while hindering one's ability to be generous and detached from worldly goods.
Do I excessively focus on acquiring new possessions?
From a Catholic perspective, obsessing over possessions is considered sinful because it makes material things an idol that takes precedence over God and prevents spiritual growth while hindering one's ability to be generous and detached from worldly goods.
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 harbor thoughts of revenge against others, especially in situations where I feel wronged or slighted?
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.
Imprudence
Have I spent excessive time on meaningless diversions?
Wasteful pursuits squander the precious time God has given us for meaningful spiritual growth and service to others.
Vanity
Did you obsess over your physical appearence?
Excessive focus on physical appearance reflects vanity and can indicate a lack of trust in God's creation of you as inherently worthy.
Sensuality
Did I desire worldly experiences over growth in faith, often seeking temporary pleasures that distracted me from my eternal relationship with God?
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 prioritize worldly experiences over growth in faith through my thoughts, words, and actions?
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 misuse controlled substances to escape my problems?
Using controlled substances deliberately impairs your God-given reason and free will, and an attempt to avoid dealing with life's challenges rather than facing them with God's help.
Did you intentionally misuse controlled substances to detach from your God-given reason and free will?
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 intentionally use controlled substances to escape my problems and feelings, rather than facing them with courage and faith?
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 allow my own desires for leisure, entertainment, and relaxation to become the primary focus of my life, displacing God's will?
This sin makes idol of physical or emotional gratification, turning what should be a gift from God into the primary focus of one's life, displacing God as the center and highest good.
Do I prioritize my own emotional gratification over my relationship with God, especially in moments of stress or loneliness?
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 pleasures and desires the ultimate goal of my thoughts, even when they conflict with 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 masturbation?
While our sexual nature is a gift, using it for self-indulgence in sensual pleasures is sinful as it's ordered for a particular purpose within marriage.
Have I engaged in masturbation?
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.
Autonomy
Did I remain silent about Church teachings when it would have been difficult to speak up in social situations, such as gatherings or events?
While it is a hardship and uncomfortable, we should not display softtness, but rather be witnesses to the Truth.
Did I take for granted the good things in my life, forgetting to acknowledge their source in God's providence?
Believing that one's blessings are due to one's own self-sufficiency and determination is a sin as it is a rejection of recognizing Divine Providence as being ultimately responsible.
Did I take for granted the good things in my life, forgetting to acknowledge their source in God's providence?
Believing that one's blessings are due to one's own self-sufficiency and determination is a sin as it is a rejection of recognizing Divine Providence as being ultimately responsible.
Did I give in to self-doubt about my ability to make decisions that align with God's will?
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.
Have I, in my pursuit of hobbies like gardening, painting, or playing music, relied solely on my own abilities without acknowledging my dependence on God's grace?
Pride is self-reliance repeats Lucifer's original sin of wanting independence from God and fails to acknowledge our complete dependence on divine grace.
Have I relied solely on my own abilities, rather than acknowledging my dependence on God's guidance in all aspects of 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.
Did you place your complete trust in your own abilities, without acknowledging your dependence on God's grace?
Pride is self-reliance repeats Lucifer's original sin of wanting independence from God and fails to acknowledge our complete dependence on divine grace.
Scandal
Did I encourage someone else to engage in sinful behavior through my own actions?
Leading others to sin (also called "scandal") is sinful because it actively harms another person's soul by encouraging them away from God, making you spiritually responsible both for your own sin and for potentially damaging another's relationship with God.
Impenitence
Have I refused to acknowledge my wrongdoing, even when confronted by others?
Impenitence is sinful because refusing to repent is a prideful rejection of God's mercy.
Have I stubbornly refused to acknowledge my wrongdoing, clinging to it instead of humbly admitting fault?
Impenitence is sinful because refusing to repent is a prideful rejection of God's mercy.
Blasphemy
Did you swear to God in anger, frustration, or other emotions?
This sin violates the Second Commandment by treating God's holy name with disrespect rather than reverence.
Did I receive Holy Communion while being knowingly unworthy, having been deceived by my own sense of virtue?
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 in a state of spiritual dryness, having neglected to regularly examine my conscience and make amends for past wrongdoings?
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 name of Jesus or God in words that show disrespect or contempt?
This is sinful as using God's holy name carelessly or disrespectfully shows contempt for His divine nature and fails to give proper honor to the sacred name of God, which should only be used in prayer, worship, or respectful discussion.
Did you use the name of God, Jesus, or any sacred title in a careless, joking, or irreverent manner through your words?
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 God's name in a thoughtless, irreverent, or contemptuous manner through my words?
This is sinful as using God's holy name carelessly or disrespectfully shows contempt for His divine nature and fails to give proper honor to the sacred name of God, which should only be used in prayer, worship, or respectful discussion.
Vainglory
Am I more focused on defending my good name and gaining human respect in social settings, like community events or family gatherings, than pleasing God through humble service?
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?
Vainglory corrupts our good actions by doing them for human acclaim rather than for God's glory, making us slaves to others' opinions rather than true servants of God.
Am I more focused on defending my reputation in community gatherings 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 distance yourself from Catholic teachings when faced with social pressure, influence, or discomfort among your peers, community members, or family?
This is a public betrayal of Jesus' teaching that "whoever denies me before men, I will also deny before my Father who is in heaven," effectively choosing human respect over fidelity to God.
Ambition
Did I allow my desire for power and dominance to influence how I interacted with others, particularly those in positions of authority or leadership?
inordinate ambition and the obsession with power corrupts the soul by placing our desire to dominate and control above God's authority, turning us away from humble service and toward prideful self-exaltation.
Did I allow my desire for power and dominance to influence how I treat others in my interactions, whether online or offline?
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 ambition to influence and lead others in our community gatherings, volunteer work, or family events sometimes cloud my judgment and intentions, leading me to prioritize my own desires over the needs and well-being of those around me?
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 accumulation of material possessions a driving force in my life, potentially 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
Did you oppress, harass, or discriminate against others through your words and actions?
It's a sin to execute an unjust and cruel exercise of power or authority over others instead of respecting the God-given dignity of every human person.
Have I through my words, actions, or deeds, mistreated others?
It's a sin to execute an unjust and cruel exercise of power or authority over others instead of respecting the God-given dignity of every human person.
Did I unjustly dominate, intimidate, or bully others through my actions?
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.
Envy
Have I ever felt envy towards others' successes, such as their careers, finances, or achievements?
Envy leads us to have discontent for another's possessions so we won't feel the pain of comparison or perceived lack in our own lives.
Have I envied others' accomplishments and felt envious when they succeeded in areas where I had failed?
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 desiring others' possessions?
This sin stems from ingratitude for one's own blessings and letting material desires control our hearts.
Have I indulged in discontentment with what I have, fixating on coveting others' possessions through my thoughts?
This sin stems from ingratitude for one's own blessings and letting material desires control our hearts.
Incontinence
Did I lack self-control in using words to disrespect others?
This sin of incontinence shows a lack of self-restraint and violates the dignity of others.
Did I lack self-control and speak to others with words that were unbecoming of a follower of Christ, possibly damaging relationships within my family or community?
This sin of incontinence shows a lack of self-restraint and violates the dignity of others.
Did I speak to others with uncontrolled words, revealing a lack of self-control?
This sin of incontinence shows a lack of self-restraint and violates the dignity of others.
Prodigality
Have I been excessively reckless in prioritizing indulgences over my financial obligations and 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 spending on leisure activities, compromising my financial responsibilities to family 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.
Have I excessively risked my financial resources, neglecting my responsibility to provide for myself and others 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.
Gossip
Have I taken pleasure in discussing others' faults or private affairs, even if what I shared was true, while engaging in conversations at social events, family gatherings, or online forums?
Gossip violates human dignity and charity by harming others' reputations for our own entertainment or pride.
Have I taken pleasure in discussing others' personal matters, 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 used my words to share or spread information about others that was meant to be private, even if what I shared was true?
Gossip violates human dignity and charity by harming others' reputations for our own entertainment or pride.
Impiety
Did I use my talents, skills, and time on a Sunday when it otherwise 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 you fail to always show reverence for Most Blessed Sacrament, neglecting it in your daily routines?
This sin is in failing to show proper reverence demonstrates a lack of faith, respect, and proper worship due to God.
Did I fail to show reverence for Most Blessed Sacrament during solemn celebrations, such as Mass or Adoration?
This sin is in failing to show proper reverence demonstrates a lack of faith, respect, and proper worship due to God.
Have I failed to always show reverence for Most Blessed Sacrament by neglecting to prioritize its proper adoration and veneration in my daily life?
This sin is in failing to show proper reverence demonstrates a lack of faith, respect, and proper worship due to God.
Impurity
Did I intentionally use 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 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.
Have I displayed myself 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 in such a way that my attire has been immodest and lacking in respect for myself?
Wearing attire that's exceptionally revealing or indecent violates chastity and beckons sins from others.
Infidelity
Have you broken your marriage vows by engaging in any form of infidelity through your deeds?
Fidelity in marriage is viewed as a sacred covenant made before God - not just a contract between people, thus breaking vows is seen as a betrayal of both divine and human trust.
Fornication
Did I engage in any physical intimacy outside of marriage that was not open to procreation?
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.
Lust
Have I had actual or simulated 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 indulged in any acts, whether actual or simulated, that gave in to 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 committed acts that have simulated or encouraged lustful deeds outside of marriage, using my imagination to give in to such desires?
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.
Violence
Have I knowingly acted in ways that brought pain or suffering to others through my deeds?
When we deliberately harm others, we attack their God-given dignity.
Have I knowingly acted in ways that caused pain or suffering to someone else through my actions or deeds?
When we deliberately harm others, we attack their God-given dignity.
Sorcery
Did you interact with mediums, fortune tellers, tarot card readers, or Ouija boards through words, writings, or conversations?
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 interact with mediums, fortune tellers, tarot card readers, or Ouija boards by seeking guidance through divination?
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 engage in conversations or interactions that involved seeking 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.
Presumption
Did you presume God's mercy in allowing you to persist in sinful behavior, without making any effort to change?
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, relying on God's mercy without making genuine effort to change or genuinely repent, showing disregard for divine justice and mercy?
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, presuming that your good intentions and hobbies such as gardening or playing music would suffice, rather than striving for genuine spiritual growth?
Presumption of God's mercy is a sin against hope because it takes His forgiveness for granted without true repentance or effort to amend one's life, showing disrespect for divine justice and mercy.
Did you put off going to confession, showing a lack of urgency in repenting from mortal 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.
Did you procrastinate going to confession, recklessly putting your soul's salvation at risk by delaying repentance for any unconfessed 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.
Did you put off going to confession for too long while knowing that your spiritual well-being was at risk?
Deliberately delaying confession while in mortal sin is a serious offense because it recklessly endangers your soul's salvation, shows contempt for God's mercy through the sacrament of reconciliation, and demonstrates prideful presumption that you'll have time later to repent.
Resistance Of Truth
Have I entertained doubts about God's existence through my thoughts, especially when faced with challenges to my faith or uncertainty in life?
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.