A Catholic Examination of Conscience
Senior, Widowed Woman
In preparing for confession, please read through the examination questions and explanations thoughtfully, reflecting on each point and honestly identifying where you've fallen short of God's call in your life. You may click and remove any irrelevant ones as you proceed. Take mental note of any serious sins that require confession, focusing on being thorough but not scrupulous, then use these insights to make a complete and sincere confession to your priest.
Updated: December 3, 2024
Read Time: 15 minutes
Disobedience
Was I disobedient to parents or guardians in actions related to gardening, outdoor activities, or community events?
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 doing something without their permission that they had previously asked me to wait or discuss first?
As per the fourth commandment, it's a child's duty to respond to parental love, wisdom, and respect with obedience.
Did I reject the unity of the Church when frustrated with individuals in my community?
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 Catholic Church when disagreeing with others within the parish, perhaps due to frustrations or differing opinions?
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 use Sunday for work when it could have been avoided, showing disrespect for this day of rest?
It's irreverent to work on a Sunday as it's a holy day of rest, worship, and a day of protest against the servitude of work and the worship of money (CCC).
Have I disobeyed my mother and father through my actions, attitudes, and behaviors towards them?
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 disobeyed my mother and father through my actions and attitudes, especially in regards to authority, guidance, and decision-making?
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 by disobeying their legitimate authority or disrespecting their wishes?
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
Have I ever told other Catholics that they should stay away from Sacraments or Mass?
One of the spiritual works of mercy is to admonish the sinner and to correct them out of love and charity instead of condoning sin.
Have I ever led others in my Catholic community to believe that staying away from Sacraments or Mass is acceptable?
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 ever encourage other Catholics to neglect receiving the Sacraments or attending 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 condone a funeral where remains were not properly buried?
Failing to advocate for proper burial of human remains is considered sinful as the Church teaches that the body is sacred and deserves reverent burial, with scattering or keeping remains being contrary to the dignity of the human body and resurrection belief.
Did you condone a funeral where human remains were not given proper 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 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 own soul to be exposed to harmful 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 give approval by word to another Catholic getting 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 give my approval by words to another Catholic who 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 give approval to another Catholic through my words that they could remarry 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 publicly endorse or justify abortion or euthanasia, thereby contributing to a culture that condones taking human life?
It's sinful to condone sinful behavior and fail to admonish such sinful actions, especially a grave act that would take a life.
Adultery
Did I forgo a valid Catholic marriage through my actions?
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 toward someone else's spouse?
This sin undermines the sacred bond of marriage by treating another person as an object of desire rather than respecting their dignity and commitment to their spouse.
Have I entertained inappropriate feelings toward someone else's spouse through my interactions or connections made while participating in local community events, volunteering, or traveling to visit friends?
This sin undermines the sacred bond of marriage by treating another person as an object of desire rather than respecting their dignity and commitment to their spouse.
Have I entertained inappropriate feelings toward someone else's spouse through thoughts inspired by interactions at community events, volunteer work, or social gatherings?
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.
Scandal
Did I forgo a valid Catholic marriage, potentially causing harm to myself or others through deeds that compromised my faith commitment?
For Catholics, marriage is sacramental and needs to occur in the Church or receive a dispensation if either people are not Catholic.
Did you try to make someone else commit a sinful act through your words, actions, or influence?
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 lead someone who respects your values and follows your advice into committing a sinful act?
Leading others to sin (also called "scandal") is sinful because it actively harms another person's soul by encouraging them away from God, making you spiritually responsible both for your own sin and for potentially damaging another's relationship with God.
Uncharity
Have I turned away from strangers and those who are displaced?
Per the corporal works of mercy, we are to love our neighbors by feeding the hungry and sheltering the homeless and respecting their dignity especially in times of hardship.
Do I turn away from those who are strangers to me?
Per the corporal works of mercy, we are to love our neighbors by feeding the hungry and sheltering the homeless and respecting their dignity especially in times of hardship.
Do I look down upon others based on their occupation, nationality, or other characteristic?
This sin dehumanizes people on the margins when we are called to love each other as a child of God as Jesus loved us.
Do I look down upon others based on their job, nationality, or other trait when interacting with them in community events, at work, or through my social network?
This sin dehumanizes people on the margins when we are called to love each other as a child of God as Jesus loved us.
Do I look down upon others based on their job, nationality, or other trait, dehumanizing them in my thoughts?
This sin dehumanizes people on the margins when we are called to love each other as a child of God as Jesus loved us.
Did I put my own interests, such as hobbies or personal pursuits, before serving others in my community, including volunteering or participating in local events?
This is considered sinful because excessive self-focus and selfishness violates Christ's command to love our neighbors as ourselves and contradicts the Christian call to practice charity, compassion, and self-sacrifice for others.
Did you prioritize your own needs over those of your community, family, and friends in making decisions?
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 think poorly of others, thereby showing disrespect 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.
Did you lose your patience with those around you, such as friends from community groups, colleagues, or family members?
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 speak harshly to others, losing my patience with them in word?
Losing patience with others fails to reflect God's infinite patience with us and violates Christ's command to love our neighbor, instead allowing anger and frustration to override charity and kindness.
Did I permit someone to be treated unfairly in my community, volunteer work, or daily interactions?
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 else to be treated unfairly in situations where I had influence over their circumstances?
This sin violates the principles of justice, charity, and our moral obligation to defend human dignity and protect our neighbors from harm when we have the ability to intervene.
Have I helped those in need when they needed my assistance?
Refusing to help those in need violates Jesus's direct command to love our neighbor and practice the works of mercy, as illustrated in the parable of the Good Samaritan.
Have I neglected to provide assistance when it was needed?
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 to family members, friends, or neighbors who may be struggling with illness, financial difficulties, or other challenges that require emotional support and tangible help?
Failing to help those in need violates Christ's direct command to love our neighbor and care for the poor, effectively refusing to recognize Jesus Himself in the suffering of others.
Have I shown compassion and practical assistance to those in need, particularly in moments when my own interests or comfort might have been at odds with their requirements?
Failing to help those in need violates Christ's direct command to love our neighbor and care for the poor, effectively refusing to recognize Jesus Himself in the suffering of others.
Have I shown compassion and practical assistance to those in my community who are struggling or in need, particularly during times of crisis or hardship?
Failing to help those in need violates Christ's direct command to love our neighbor and care for the poor, effectively refusing to recognize Jesus Himself in the suffering of others.
Lukewarmness
Am I unwilling to grow in my spiritual life, especially in areas where God is calling me to transformation?
Lukewarmness in spiritual growth is sinful because one essentially chooses comfort and mediocrity over the transformative love God offers, which Jesus specifically warned against in Revelation 3:16.
Merciless
Have I spoken harshly or unjustly about others, condemning them without mercy?
Condemning others is a sin of mercilessness because it places oneself in God's role as judge and denies others the same mercy and forgiveness that God extends to all of us.
Have I spoken harshly against others, especially in criticizing their lifestyle choices or personal decisions?
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 help someone in my community who was struggling when I had the opportunity to do so?
As part of the corporal works of mercy, we're called to be merciful and compassionate to those in distress.
Sloth
Did you turn away from those who were in need of my help?
Neglecting the sick violates Jesus's direct command to care for the ill as if they were Christ himself.
Did I refuse to assist those in need who sought my help?
Neglecting the sick violates Jesus's direct command to care for the ill as if they were Christ himself.
Have I failed to guide my child toward knowing Christ? (No demographic-specific information added)
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 with those entrusted to me, leading them to neglect 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 others' genuine needs and wellbeing in my daily activities?
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 grandchildren'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 hobbies and interests ahead of my relationships and family connections?
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 deprive my child of guidance in matters of 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 to daily prioritize my 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 to establish a daily prayer routine that prioritizes my spiritual well-being?
This is a sin because daily prayer is our essential lifeline of communication with God - deliberately neglecting it demonstrates ingratitude to our Creator, breaks our fundamental relationship with Him, and violates the First Commandment's call to properly worship God
Did I deprioritize and skip Mass on a Sunday or Holy Day of Obligation, allowing worldly priorities to overshadow 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 I deprioritize my Sunday Mass obligation for worldly interests such as gardening, cooking, or traveling?
deliberately choosing to skip Mass for non-serious reasons shows disobedience to Church authority, ingratitude for Christ's sacrifice, and places worldly priorities above our highest obligation to worship God.
Did I deprioritize attending Mass on Sundays or Holy Days of Obligation, choosing instead to engage in worldly activities?
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 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 intentionally omit paying debts that were due 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, thereby withholding payment that was rightfully due to others?
Intentionally failing to pay debts is sinful because it violates both the seventh commandment against theft and the principle of justice that requires honoring our commitments to others.
Did you help others steal from 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 help others steal their belongings or 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 stolen anything that doesn't belong to me, regardless of its value, in any capacity or situation?
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 you avoid paying others a fair price or wage through your 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.
Did I take unfair advantage of someone by refusing to pay them a fair price for goods or services I purchased 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 paying others less than what they were fairly owed?
Failing to pay a fair wage or price is a sin because it violates both the seventh commandment against stealing and the principle of social justice.
False Witness
Did I misrepresent myself to gain an advantage through spoken words?
This is considered sinful because deliberately deceiving others for personal gain violates the eighth commandment against bearing false witness and breaks trust in human relationships while failing to reflect Christian virtues of honesty and integrity.
Did I deceive others through my words in order to gain an advantage?
This is considered sinful because deliberately deceiving others for personal gain violates the eighth commandment against bearing false witness and breaks trust in human relationships while failing to reflect Christian virtues of honesty and integrity.
Did I cause others to believe something that was untrue through my actions?
Deceiving others is a form of bearing false witness, damages trust between people, and breaks down human relationships that should reflect God's truth and love.
Did I mislead others through my words or actions?
Deceiving others is a form of bearing false witness, damages trust between people, and breaks down human relationships that should reflect God's truth and love.
Have I deliberately exaggerated, misrepresented the truth, or lied about others in personal conversations, online interactions, or community events?
Bearing false witness puts one's desires over truth, justice, and love of God.
Have I deliberately exaggerated, misrepresented the truth about others in conversations and discussions, or used my words to lie about them?
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 casual conversations or when sharing stories about family, friends, or community events?
Bearing false witness puts one's desires over truth, justice, and love of God.
Resent
Have you become sterilized?
This is considered sinful because deliberately altering one's fertility represents an act of defiance against God and implies we know better than divine wisdom, placing our desires for control above trust in God's plan for our lives.
Did I become sterilized against God's will?
This is considered sinful because deliberately altering one's fertility represents an act of defiance against God and implies we know better than divine wisdom, placing our desires for control above trust in God's plan for our lives.
Do I shrink from sharing my faith and the teachings of Jesus with others through spoken words?
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, when speaking to others about God's love and message, fear to say the name of Jesus?
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 harbor any resentment against others who have unintentionally wronged me in some way?
Holding a grudge with enemies is sinful as it directly contradicts Christ's command to "love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you."
Did I harbor any resentment against those who have wronged me in my life, even when faced with difficult or hurtful 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 in my heart towards those who have wronged me, and did this hardness of spirit cause me to distance myself from them or others?
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 refuse to pardon someone who wronged me, thereby denying them my forgiveness?
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 use hurtful words to someone who had wronged me, refusing them the forgiveness that comes from God?
Refusing to forgive others is sinful because it contradicts Jesus's direct command to forgive and His example of mercy, while also blocking God's forgiveness of our own sins.
Have I, at any time in my life, deliberately abandoned my faith for a considerable 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, at any point in my life, deliberately turn away from God's truth and the faith He has entrusted to me, even if only for a short period of time?
This sin represents a deliberate rejection of God's revealed truth and the covenant relationship established through baptism, breaking the promise to remain faithful to Christ and His Church.
Lust
Have I allowed my imagination to dwell on, or engaged in, thoughts that could lead me to interact with pornography?
Interacting with pornography reduces human beings to mere objects for personal gratification, violating their inherent dignity and worth as children of God.
Did I entertain thoughts of pornography?
Interacting with pornography reduces human beings to mere objects for personal gratification, violating their inherent dignity and worth as children of God.
Did I reduce others to what they could do for me, rather than seeing their full humanity, especially in situations where I seek companionship or assistance?
While not sexual in nature, this sin is still a form of lust in that it objectifies others who are created in God's image and possesses inherent dignity,
Did you reduce others to their appearance, usefulness, or what they could do for you, 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,
Have I engaged in actual or simulated sexual acts outside of marriage?
While our sexual nature is a gift, using it to indulge in sensual pleasures is sinful as it's ordered for a particular purpose within marriage.
Have I engaged in actual or simulated acts outside of marriage that could stir up lust?
While our sexual nature is a gift, using it to indulge in sensual pleasures is sinful as it's ordered for a particular purpose within marriage.
Imprudence
Have I spent excessive time engaging in idle pursuits that divert my attention from meaningful spiritual growth and service to others?
Wasteful pursuits squander the precious time God has given us for meaningful spiritual growth and service to others.
Prodigality
Have I unnecessarily prioritized leisure activities over time dedicated to spiritual growth and service to others?
Wasteful pursuits squander the precious time God has given us for meaningful spiritual growth and service to others.
Have I excessively spent my financial resources for unnecessary entertainment, compromising my ability to fulfill my family's 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 prioritized entertainment and leisure activities over meeting my basic financial obligations, potentially compromising my ability to provide for myself?
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.
Resistance Of Truth
Did I fail to share Church teachings in discussions about moral issues, lest they cause discomfort or disagreement among others?
While it is a hardship and uncomfortable, we should not display softtness, but rather be witnesses to the Truth.
Impenitence
Have I refused to acknowledge my wrongdoings, clinging to them instead of repenting?
Impenitence is sinful because refusing to repent is a prideful rejection of God's mercy.
Have I refused to acknowledge my wrongdoings, clinging to them in my thoughts?
Impenitence is sinful because refusing to repent is a prideful rejection of God's mercy.
Have I refused to let go of my pride, refusing to admit my own wrongdoing and stubbornly clinging to justifying my sinful choices?
Impenitence is sinful because refusing to repent is a prideful rejection of God's mercy.
Sensuality
Did you use substances to impair your mind?
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 deliberately impair my God-given reason and free will through substances?
Using controlled substances deliberately impairs your God-given reason and free will, and an attempt to avoid dealing with life's challenges rather than facing them with God's help.
Do I prioritize my own desires for comfort, leisure, or entertainment over seeking God's will in my daily life?
This sin makes idol of physical or emotional gratification, turning what should be a gift from God into the primary focus of one's life, displacing God as the center and highest good.
Do I allow my desires for comfort, relaxation, and pleasure to become the primary focus of my life, distracting me from my relationship with God?
This sin makes idol of physical or emotional gratification, turning what should be a gift from God into the primary focus of one's life, displacing God as the center and highest good.
Do I allow my desire for comfort, relaxation, or entertainment to distract me from spending quality time in prayer and devotion to 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.
Blasphemy
Did you swear to God in your words?
This sin violates the Second Commandment by treating God's holy name with disrespect rather than reverence.
Did you, in conversation or discussion, swear to God?
This sin violates the Second Commandment by treating God's holy name with disrespect rather than reverence.
Did you swear to God in anger, frustration, or other emotions when expressing yourself in a situation where you felt overwhelmed?
This sin violates the Second Commandment by treating God's holy name with disrespect rather than reverence.
Did you receive Holy Communion while knowingly in a state of sin, compromising your relationship with God?
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 with a family member or an unrepented hurtful deed?
This mortal sin is a form of sacrilege and profanes the real presence of Christ and shows grave disrespect for the sacrament by receiving unworthily.
Did you use the sacred name of God as a curse, oath, or inane expression in conversation or conversation-like settings?
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 casual conversation or when feeling frustrated, spoken the name of God carelessly or used it as a curse?
This is sinful as using God's holy name carelessly or disrespectfully shows contempt for His divine nature and fails to give proper honor to the sacred name of God, which should only be used in prayer, worship, or respectful discussion.
Vainglory
Am I more focused on defending my reputation and gaining respect from others through my gardening, cooking, or volunteering efforts than pleasing God?
Vainglory corrupts our good actions by doing them for human acclaim rather than for God's glory, making us slaves to others' opinions rather than true servants of God.
Am I more focused on seeking admiration and validation from others through my hobbies, interests, and accomplishments than pleasing God?
Vainglory corrupts our good actions by doing them for human acclaim rather than for God's glory, making us slaves to others' opinions rather than true servants of God.
Am I more focused on gaining admiration from others through my gardening skills, hobbies, or community involvement rather than pleasing God?
Vainglory corrupts our good actions by doing them for human acclaim rather than for God's glory, making us slaves to others' opinions rather than true servants of God.
Did you publicly deny your faith in God when faced with social pressure or discomfort among friends, family members, or acquaintances?
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 my pursuit for recognition in local community events, volunteer work, and social gatherings allow my desire for power and dominance to influence how I interacted with others?
inordinate ambition and the obsession with power corrupts the soul by placing our desire to dominate and control above God's authority, turning us away from humble service and toward prideful self-exaltation.
Did I allow my desire for power and dominance to influence how I treat and interact with those around me, particularly in community settings or through volunteer work?
inordinate ambition and the obsession with power corrupts the soul by placing our desire to dominate and control above God's authority, turning us away from humble service and toward prideful self-exaltation.
Did I let my desire for power influence decisions that harm others through prideful self-exaltation?
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 material possessions my primary concern, making them a driving force in my life?
This sin makes money an idol that replaces trust in God's providence, turning what should be a tool for good into an object of worship.
Oppression
Have I mistreated, harassed, or discriminated against 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 engage in unjust, hurtful, or abusive behavior towards others through my words, actions, or influence?
It's a sin to execute an unjust and cruel exercise of power or authority over others instead of respecting the God-given dignity of every human person.
Autonomy
Did you take for granted the good things in your 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 benefits of my retirement, 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.
Have you entertained doubts about God's existence?
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 you entertained doubts about God's existence in your 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.
Have I relied solely on my own abilities, neglecting to acknowledge and depend on God's grace in guiding me through various 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.
Have I credited my successes solely to my own abilities, rather than acknowledging God's guidance and support in achieving them?
Pride is self-reliance repeats Lucifer's original sin of wanting independence from God and fails to acknowledge our complete dependence on divine grace.
Presumption
Did I assume that my good fortune in life, such as enjoying time outdoors or trying new recipes, was solely due to my own abilities and efforts, rather than recognizing 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.
Have you deliberately persisted in thinking that God's mercy would cover your lack of effort to change your ways, without making any genuine attempt to reform yourself?
Presumption of God's mercy is a sin against hope because it takes His forgiveness for granted without true repentance or effort to amend one's life, showing disrespect for divine justice and mercy.
Did you deliberately persist in taking God's mercy for granted without making any effort to change, counting on His forgiveness without truly turning your heart towards Him?
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 assuming God's mercy without making any genuine effort to change your ways, underestimating the importance of true repentance and a sincere desire for amendment?
Presumption of God's mercy is a sin against hope because it takes His forgiveness for granted without true repentance or effort to amend one's life, showing disrespect for divine justice and mercy.
Did you put off going to confession while in a state of sin, thinking that you would have time later to repent?
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 in a state of sin, recklessly endangering your soul's salvation?
Deliberately delaying confession while in mortal sin is a serious offense because it recklessly endangers your soul's salvation, shows contempt for God's mercy through the sacrament of reconciliation, and demonstrates prideful presumption that you'll have time later to repent.
Envy
Have I secretly wished that others would lose their blessings, such as financial security, good health, or other gifts, in order to feel more comfortable with my own situation?
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 and fixate on coveting others' possessions, often finding myself thinking about what others have that I wish I had?
This sin stems from ingratitude for one's own blessings and letting material desires control our hearts.
Have I been discontent with what God has given me, fixating on desiring 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, potentially hurting their dignity in our community events or gatherings?
This sin of incontinence shows a lack of self-restraint and violates the dignity of others.
Did I lack self-control and use my words to wound or offend others in public or social settings?
This sin of incontinence shows a lack of self-restraint and violates the dignity of others.
Did I lack self-control and speak to others with hurtful or unbecoming words in social situations, such as when volunteering at local community events?
This sin of incontinence shows a lack of self-restraint and violates the dignity of others.
Gluttony
Did I overindulge in eating or drinking while neglecting my responsibilities and duties?
This sin of gluttony demonstrates an inordinate attachment to worldly pleasures and rejects the call to temperance.
Gossip
Have I taken pleasure in sharing others' private affairs, even if what I shared was true?
Gossip violates human dignity and charity by harming others' reputations for our own entertainment or pride.
Have I taken pleasure in discussing others' private affairs, even if what I shared was true, especially when sharing stories or experiences at community events or with close friends?
Gossip violates human dignity and charity by harming others' reputations for our own entertainment or pride.
Have I spoken to others about my acquaintances' 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.
Anger
Have I nursed anger rather than seeking reconciliation in my relationships, particularly within close family members?
Uncontrolled anger corrupts our own heart, damages our relationship with both God and neighbor.
Impurity
Did you use practices, substances, or objects to prevent pregnancy in your marriage?
This sin intentionally separates the unitive and procreative purposes of marriage and violates the proper use of one's sexuality.
Did you use certain practices to prevent pregnancy?
This sin intentionally separates the unitive and procreative purposes of marriage and violates the proper use of one's sexuality.
Have I dressed immodestly in a way that respects my dignity, particularly when engaging in social or community activities?
Wearing attire that's exceptionally revealing or indecent violates chastity and beckons sins from others.
Have I walked immodestly in a way that respects my dignity?
Wearing attire that's exceptionally revealing or indecent violates chastity and beckons sins from others.
Infidelity
Did you break the covenant of fidelity promised in your marriage vows?
Fidelity in marriage is viewed as a sacred covenant made before God - not just a contract between people, thus breaking vows is seen as a betrayal of both divine and human trust.
Fornication
Have I had any non-marital, non-procreative sex?
While the sexual natures are a gift, it's a sin to stray away from their ordering toward the unitive and procreative nature within marriage.
Did I have any non-marital, non-procreative sexual relations?
While the sexual natures are a gift, it's a sin to stray away from their ordering toward the unitive and procreative nature within marriage.
Violence
Have I knowingly acted in ways that intentionally caused harm or pain to someone else, perhaps unintentionally leading them to experience emotional distress or suffering?
When we deliberately harm others, we attack their God-given dignity.
Have I knowingly acted in ways that brought physical or emotional pain to someone through my words, tone, or actions?
When we deliberately harm others, we attack their God-given dignity.
Have I knowingly acted in ways that intentionally caused hurt, pain, or suffering to someone else through my deeds?
When we deliberately harm others, we attack their God-given dignity.
Sorcery
Have I 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 you interacted with mediums, fortune tellers, tarot card readers, or Ouija boards using words that expressed interest, sought guidance, or revealed confidence in their abilities?
This sin is a violation of the First Commandment because it attempts to bypass God's providence and divine will by seeking supernatural knowledge through forbidden means, effectively placing trust in occult practices rather than in God.
Have you interacted with mediums, fortune tellers, tarot card readers, or Ouija boards, using their services to seek guidance or knowledge that bypasses God's providence?
This sin is a violation of the First Commandment because it attempts to bypass God's providence and divine will by seeking supernatural knowledge through forbidden means, effectively placing trust in occult practices rather than in God.
Heresy
Did you, at any point in your life, intentionally harbor doubts or skepticism about the Catholic faith, causing you to drift away from its teachings?
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.
Apostasy
Have you explicitly rejected the existence of God, either in your personal thoughts or when discussing these matters 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 in your thoughts, either privately to yourself or verbally 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 ever rejected the existence of God in your thoughts, even if only briefly?
Denying God's existence after having been baptized apostasy is one of the gravest sins possible because it is declaring the Author of Life and Source of all being to be non-existent, which directly contradicts both reason and divine revelation.
Impiety
Did I fail to show reverence for Most Blessed Sacrament, especially in times of quiet contemplation or communal worship?
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 show reverence for Most Blessed Sacrament on occasions when it was present in your parish or home?
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 show reverence for Most Blessed Sacrament on days when it was displayed in your home or community, perhaps neglecting to make a bow or display proper respect?
This sin is in failing to show proper reverence demonstrates a lack of faith, respect, and proper worship due to God.