A Catholic Examination of Conscience

18-24 Married Father with Children Under 18

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

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Disobedience

Was I disobedient to my parents, specifically in regards to my responsibilities towards them and our household?

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, particularly in regards to my responsibilities towards our family, by disregarding their reasonable expectations or instructions?

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 making decisions that went against their wishes regarding my family responsibilities?

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 Catholic Church when frustrated with my own shortcomings within it?

Rejecting Church unity due to frustration with individuals is sinful because it confuses the Church's divine nature and eternal truths with the human imperfections of its members, while also violating Christ's prayer "that they may all be one."

Did I deliberately disregard prescribed days of fasting on Ash Wednesday by skipping them?

This is considered sinful because deliberately disregarding prescribed days of fasting represents disobedience to Church authority and fails to honor our spiritual obligation to practice self-denial and penance during sacred times.

Did I deliberately disregard prescribed days for self-denial and penance by skipping them on occasions such as Ash Wednesday?

This is considered sinful because deliberately disregarding prescribed days of fasting represents disobedience to Church authority and fails to honor our spiritual obligation to practice self-denial and penance during sacred times.

Did I use words to belittle or mock the Church?

Mocking the church shows contempt for Christ's established institution on earth, disrespects the Body of Christ, and undermines the Church's divine authority as guided by the Holy Spirit.

Did I unnecessarily engage in paid work or other activities on a Sunday, thereby disrespecting the Lord's Day of rest and worship?

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 dishonored my mother and father through my actions and attitudes by failing to show them respect, consideration, and gratitude?

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

Have I through my actions and attitudes shown disrespect towards my mother, who has given me life and nurtured me in faith and virtue?

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

Have I shown disrespect to my mother through my actions, particularly in regards to fulfilling parental expectations and responsibilities?

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

Condoning

Did I encourage other Catholics to neglect participating in Sacraments through my words?

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

Did I lead other Catholics to ignore their obligation to receive sacraments through my words?

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

Did I allow my child's mistake to continue unaddressed, rather than having a difficult conversation with them?

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

Did I permit my child to continue in an area of moral or spiritual darkness by failing to address it directly, fearing a potentially uncomfortable conversation?

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

Did I permit my child to be exposed to bad influences through their interactions with peers, social media, or other external factors?

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 associations, media consumption, and online activities?

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 for another Catholic to marry in a ceremony 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 my blessing to another Catholic for marrying in a ceremony that did not meet the sacramental requirements of the Roman Catholic Church?

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

Did I, in my conversations with others, endorse or justify abortion or euthanasia?

It's sinful to condone sinful behavior and fail to admonish such sinful actions, especially a grave act that would take a life.

Uncharity

Have you turned away from strangers, those who are displaced, and other marginalized individuals in need of help?

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

Do I look down upon others based on their job, nationality, or other trait that may be different from mine?

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

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

Did I put my own interests and desires ahead of the needs, well-being, and happiness of those closest to me?

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

Did your spending habits prioritize your own desires over needs for yourself, your family, and others?

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

Do I speak to others in ways that show disregard for their dignity as children of God?

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

Have I let my emotions get the better of me, causing me to lose patience with others?

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

Did I permit someone to be treated unfairly?

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

Did I allow someone to be treated unfairly in my presence, perhaps by staying silent when I could have spoken up or taking no action when I should have intervened?

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

Have I ever failed to provide assistance when someone in my community genuinely needed it?

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

Have I shown compassion and practical assistance to those in my life, such as friends, family members, or acquaintances who are struggling with financial difficulties, health issues, or personal problems?

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 life, such as family members, friends, or acquaintances who have been struggling financially, emotionally, or physically?

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 our social network, such as friends, family members, and acquaintances?

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 condemned others through my words?

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

Callousness

Did I fail to provide assistance when someone in my community was suffering, despite having 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 turn away from someone who was ill in my family, such as a spouse or child?

This is sinful because it violates Jesus's direct command to care for the sick (Matthew 25:36) and fails to fulfill our fundamental Christian duty to show compassion and mercy to those who are suffering.

Sloth

Did 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 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 guide my child toward knowing Christ in our daily life together?

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

Have I neglected to share my faith in everyday moments 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 create opportunities for my child to develop a personal relationship with Christ through prayer, scripture study, and sacraments?

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 needs, neglecting our genuine wellbeing and responsibilities?

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, especially when it comes to providing for their daily necessities?

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 by prioritizing activities, hobbies, or personal goals over their care and well-being?

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 adequate spiritual guidance to my child?

Parents have a primary and sacred duty to pass on the faith to their children, as they are considered their children's first and most important religious teachers who are directly responsible for their spiritual formation and eternal salvation.

Did you neglect to pray daily, disregarding the Lord's call for constant communication and worship?

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 fail to prioritize daily prayer, neglecting your 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 I deprioritize attending Mass on a Sunday or Holy Day of Obligation, allowing worldly priorities to take precedence over my duty to worship God?

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

Did I deprioritize attending Mass on Sunday or Holy Day of Obligation, allowing worldly priorities to take precedence over my highest obligation 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 deprioritize and skip attending Mass on a Sunday or Holy Day of Obligation for non-serious reasons, such as indulging in sports events, gaming marathons, or other leisure 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.

Vainglory

Did I seek praise for my charitable giving?

Seeking praise for charitable giving is sinful because it transforms an act meant to glorify God and help others into an exercise of pride and self-glorification.

Am I more focused on defending my reputation and earning human recognition than pleasing God, especially when engaging in activities that bring me social status or validation?

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 front of friends, family, and acquaintances than pleasing God?

Vainglory corrupts our good actions by doing them for human acclaim rather than for God's glory, making us slaves to others' opinions rather than true servants of God.

Am I more focused on gaining respect from my peers through my accomplishments, such as career advancement, personal finance success, or social media influence, 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 your faith when criticized by friends who hold different views?

This is a public betrayal of Jesus' teaching that "whoever denies me before men, I will also deny before my Father who is in heaven," effectively choosing human respect over fidelity to God.

Theft

Did I intentionally fail to pay debts that rightfully belonged 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 repay my debts?

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

Did you intentionally fail to pay your debts, thereby disrespecting the financial commitments and trust placed in you by 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 assist others in taking something that did not belong to them?

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

Did you enable others to steal by your actions?

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

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

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

Have I taken, without permission or rightful ownership, anything that belongs to someone else?

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 anything that belongs to others, 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 shortchange others by not giving them a fair price or wage, even if it was unintentional?

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 underpay others for goods or services I purchased?

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, especially in my interactions with others?

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

Have you deceived others by withholding truth in your words, actions, or digital interactions?

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 by what I said or did?

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 by 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.

Have I deliberately exaggerated, misrepresented the truth, or lied about others in online interactions or social settings?

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 online interactions, social media posts, conversations with friends and family, or other informal situations?

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

Have I exaggerated, misrepresented truth, or lied about others in casual conversations, online interactions, or when sharing news or information on social media?

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

Resent

Did I become sterilized?

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

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?

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

Did I harbor any resentment towards others, especially those who may have wronged me in my personal or professional life?

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 individuals who have wronged me in my personal life, relationships, or career?

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 allow any resentment towards those who have wronged me to harbor in my heart?

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 you deny forgiveness to someone through your words, causing hurt and resentment in their heart?

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 you denied forgiveness to someone who wronged you, causing them to feel unheard and unloved?

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

Did you, at any time during your life journey, abandon your Catholic faith?

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 deliberately reject God's revealed truth for any length of time by questioning my faith?

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 speak the name of Jesus in front of your peers and coworkers?

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 declare Jesus' name openly in my words, actions, and witness among others?

Being ashamed or afraid to proclaim Christ represents a denial of our baptismal call to evangelize, shows lack of trust in God's protection, and fails to fulfill Jesus's command to "go and make disciples of all nations."

Did I sacrifice my values to gain approval from others, such as friends on social media, rather than standing firm in what I 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 sacrifice my authentic self and values to win the approval of others, rather than standing firm in what I believe 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 among my peers?

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

Did I fail to speak up about Church teachings in order to avoid social discomfort or conflict?

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

Did I remain silent about Church teachings in a social situation, compromising my witness to Truth for the sake of avoiding discomfort or conflict?

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

Worldliness

Do I preoccupy myself excessively with acquiring more 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?

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 allow myself to harbor thoughts of seeking revenge against 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 personal retaliation against others, especially in situations where I feel wronged or frustrated?

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.

Did you deny forgiveness to someone who wronged you, particularly when they were seeking it in our family or among friends?

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.

Prodigality

Have I excessively spent my time engaging in frivolous online activities?

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

Have I squandered the time God has given me through excessive indulgence in fleeting digital diversions?

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

Have I placed excessive and wasteful gambling above my financial responsibilities to my family?

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 spending on leisure activities over my financial obligations to provide for myself, family, or those in need?

This sin violates the virtue of stewardship by recklessly risking resources God has entrusted to us, while potentially harming our ability to provide for family and those in need.

Have I used my financial resources in such a way that they take precedence over meeting the needs of my family, especially when it comes to providing for their well-being?

This sin violates the virtue of stewardship by recklessly risking resources God has entrusted to us, while potentially harming our ability to provide for family and those in need.

Sensuality

Did I desire worldly experiences over growth in faith?

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

Did I desire worldly pleasures over growth in faith?

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

Did I allow worldly pleasures and experiences to distract me from deepening my 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 you deliberately use controlled substances to distract from your responsibilities?

Using controlled substances deliberately impairs your God-given reason and free will, and an attempt to avoid dealing with life's challenges rather than facing them with God's help.

Have I used controlled substances to dull my mind or avoid life's challenges?

Using controlled substances deliberately impairs your God-given reason and free will, and an attempt to avoid dealing with life's challenges rather than facing them with God's help.

Do I allow my desires for entertainment, leisure, and social activities to take precedence over my commitment to God and our community?

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

Do I make my own desires, entertainment, and leisure activities more important than living in accordance with 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.

Scandal

Did I try to lead someone, through my words or actions, to commit a sinful act?

Leading others to sin (also called "scandal") is sinful because it actively harms another person's soul by encouraging them away from God, making you spiritually responsible both for your own sin and for potentially damaging another's relationship with God.

Did I attempt to lead someone else into doing something sinful, such as participating in an activity that goes against our faith or values?

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 and turn away from my own sinfulness, even when it has been made known to me?

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

Have I refused to acknowledge my wrongdoing, even after being shown the truth?

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

Blasphemy

Did you receive Holy Communion while knowingly in a state of mortal sin, particularly after engaging in activities that may have led to grave disrespect for the sacrament?

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

Did you receive Holy Communion while knowingly in a state of sin due to your unresolved conflicts 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 use the name of God as a casual expression or oath in conversation, work, or entertainment?

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, such as Jesus, to express frustration, anger, or disgust in your conversation?

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

Ambition

Did I let my desire for power and dominance influence my decisions, particularly in areas such as advancing in my career or pursuing leadership roles?

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 a desire for power and dominance to influence my decisions, especially in my roles as a husband, father, and professional, potentially leading me to prioritize control over humble service and trust with 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 money and possessions a driving force in my life, such that it overshadows my 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.

Did I make the pursuit of material possessions my primary driving force in life, potentially leading me to idolize wealth 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 use your authority, influence, or position to mistreat 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.

Lust

Did you reduce others to mere companions for your social life, rather than seeing them as full human beings deserving of respect and dignity?

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 reduced others to their usefulness in my conversations, online interactions, or relationships rather than seeing them as full human beings?

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

Did I reduce others to mere spectators at my sporting events, entertainment gatherings, or social activities, rather than seeing their full humanity?

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

Have I had acts outside of marriage that were simulated or actual expressions of 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.

Have you had actual or simulated sexual acts outside of marriage by engaging in behaviors such as viewing pornographic content, objectifying others, or indulging in sensual pleasures?

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

Autonomy

Did I take for granted the good things in my life, assuming they were solely due to my own efforts and abilities, forgetting to acknowledge God's providence?

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

Did I take for granted the good things in my career, finances, and relationships, forgetting to acknowledge their source in God's providence?

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

Did I harbor doubts about God's existence in my mind?

Deliberately entertaining doubts about God's existence is a sin against faith because it questions the most fundamental truth of our faith and shows a lack of trust in God's clear self-revelation through creation, scripture, and the Church's teachings.

Did I solely rely on my own abilities to manage life's challenges, neglecting the need for God's grace in times of uncertainty?

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 you assume that your successes in life, such as advancing in your career or achieving financial stability, were solely due to your own efforts and determination, rather than acknowledging God's providence?

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

Did you deliberately persist in sinful behavior, taking God's mercy for granted 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, taking God's mercy for granted without making any effort to change your habits or lifestyle?

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, recklessly assuming God's mercy without making any genuine effort to reform your actions?

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

Did you delay going to confession while in a state of sin, giving little thought to 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.

Did you put off going to confession because you assumed God would give you more time to repent, despite being aware of your ongoing 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 I assume my own abilities were sufficient to navigate life's challenges without considering whether God's grace was guiding me?

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

Envy

Have I secretly wished that others had to deal with the struggles and hardships that I often take for granted?

Envy leads us to have discontent for another's possessions so we won't feel the pain of comparison or perceived lack in our own lives.

Have I been discontent with my own blessings, fixating on desiring others' possessions through thoughts inspired by envy?

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

Incontinence

Did you lack self-control in your conversations and speak to others with impolite language?

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

Did you speak to others in a manner that showed you lacked self-control and used language that was vulgar or inappropriate?

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

Did you lack self-control when speaking to others, using language that was coarse or unbecoming?

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

Gluttony

Did I overindulge in eating or drinking beyond what's reasonable, especially during social gatherings or events?

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

Did you overindulge in eating or drinking beyond what's reasonable, leading to an excessive attachment to worldly pleasures?

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

Have I engaged in overindulgence in eating or drinking beyond what is reasonable, especially when it comes to using food or drink as a reward for myself?

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

Gossip

Have I taken pleasure in discussing others' faults or 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 my friends' or 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.

Have I ever taken pleasure in sharing information about friends, family members, or acquaintances that was intended to be private or embarrassing?

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

Impiety

Did I engage in unnecessary work on a Sunday, thereby disrupting my family's 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).

Did I fail to always show reverence for Most Blessed Sacrament when participating in social events, parties, or gatherings where reverence is expected but often neglected?

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

Did you fail to always show reverence for the Most Blessed Sacrament when attending Mass, receiving Holy Communion, or participating in Eucharistic devotions?

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

Anger

Have I nursed anger or held onto feelings of rage within myself, rather than seeking reconciliation with others, particularly in situations where I felt wronged or misunderstood?

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

Have I nursed anger in response to disagreements or frustrations with my partner, friends, or family members rather than seeking reconciliation?

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

Impurity

Have I used substances, practices, or objects to prevent pregnancy?

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

Did you intentionally use certain practices, substances, or objects that could prevent pregnancy?

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

Have I dressed in a way that immodestly reveals my body, leading me to stumble into sin?

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

Have I dressed in a way that immodestly reveals myself, tempting lust and offending God's law?

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

Have I dressed myself in a way that would attract sinful thoughts from others?

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

Fornication

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

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

Have I engaged in actual or simulated intimate acts outside of marriage, either alone or with another person?

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 own intentional actions?

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

Have I knowingly acted in ways that brought pain or suffering to someone else through my actions while gaming, traveling, or engaging in social media activities?

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

Adultery

Have I harbored improper intentions 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.

Sorcery

Did I interact with mediums, fortune tellers, tarot card readers, or Ouija boards in a manner that sought to bypass God's providence and divine will by seeking supernatural knowledge through forbidden means?

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 in any way that involved trusting their guidance or predictions over 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.

Apostasy

Have you explicitly rejected the existence of God, either internally in your thoughts or to others through actions or words?

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 through conversations, social media posts, or other means that others may witness?

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 through your thoughts, words, or actions in any context where you had previously professed faith?

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.