A Catholic Examination of Conscience

18-24 Widowed Man

In preparing for confession, please read through the examination questions and explanations thoughtfully, reflecting on each point and honestly identifying where you've fallen short of God's call in your life. You may click and remove any irrelevant ones as you proceed. Take mental note of any serious sins that require confession, focusing on being thorough but not scrupulous, then use these insights to make a complete and sincere confession to your priest.

Updated: December 3, 2024

Read Time: 16 minutes

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Disobedience

Was I disobedient to my parents?

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

Was I disobedient to my parents?

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

Was I disobedient to my parents through my words, actions, or decisions?

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 by those within it, leading to disobedience against Christ's will for His people?

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 intentionally neglect to fulfill my spiritual obligation on days designated for fasting?

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 become sterilized in a way that disregarded God's plan for my body?

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 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 you 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.

Have I dishonored my mother and father through my thoughts, words, and actions by showing disrespect for their authority in my life?

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

Have I dishonored my mother and father through my actions and attitudes, especially in regards to respecting parental authority and honoring their role in giving life, nurturing, and forming 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, through my deeds, dishonored my mother?

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 lead other Catholics away from their Sacraments or Mass by 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 encourage others in my community, including fellow Catholics, to stay away from receiving Sacraments or participating in Mass?

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

Did you ever lead other Catholics astray from participating in the Sacraments by your words?

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

Did I enable a peer to continue in error by avoiding a difficult conversation?

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

Did I condone a funeral where human remains were not given 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 condone another Catholic to marry outside the Church through my words?

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

Did I give my approval to someone else getting married outside the 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 use my words to endorse or justify abortion, euthanasia, or any other act that takes a 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.

Did I, through my words or actions, 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.

Adultery

Did I forgo a valid Catholic marriage through deeds that would have constituted adultery?

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.

Uncharity

Have I turned away from 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 strangers who are displaced due to circumstances beyond their control?

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

Do I turn away from those who are homeless, particularly in times of hardship?

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

Do I look down upon others based on their job, nationality, or other trait when interacting with them online?

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

Do I judge others based on their job, nationality, or other traits?

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 form judgments about others based on their occupation, country of origin, or other characteristics?

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

Did I place my own desires above the needs of others in thought, word, or deed?

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 technological advancements and online interests over others' needs for support and guidance?

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

Did I prioritize my own digital activities over responsible online relationships?

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

Have I spoken harshly to others, losing my patience with them?

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

Did I permit someone to be treated unfairly?

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

Did I permit someone to be treated unfairly by remaining silent in the face of injustice?

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

Did I permit someone to experience unfair treatment in my online communities or social 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.

Have I shown compassion and practical assistance to those in need, particularly during times of uncertainty or crisis?

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, especially during difficult times such as financial struggles or health crises?

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 demonstrated practical assistance to those around me when they have been in need, especially 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 too comfortable in my own faith, rather than striving to grow deeper in it?

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.

Am I uninterested in growing spiritually despite being familiar with transformative love that Jesus offers?

Lukewarmness in spiritual growth is sinful because one essentially chooses comfort and mediocrity over the transformative love God offers, which Jesus specifically warned against in Revelation 3:16.

Have I been unmotivated or halfhearted in my commitment to loving and serving God, especially when it comes to my involvement in religious activities and practices, allowing distractions from worldly things to take priority over my relationship with Him?

We tend to sin by failing in effort to know and love God while exerting other efforts on worldly things.

Sloth

Am I neglecting to nurture my faith through regular prayer, reflection, and participation in Catholic teachings and practices?

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.

Did I ignore those who were suffering and needed my assistance?

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

Did I neglect those who were suffering and in need of 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 introduce my child to Christ, particularly in moments when our schedules and priorities have led me to neglect this essential responsibility?

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 prioritize leading my child to Christ through spiritual guidance, when I had the opportunity?

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.

Did you engage in work on a Sunday, using the day to fulfill personal or professional obligations rather than observing it as a holy day of rest?

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

In what ways have I put my own interests ahead of my family's genuine needs and wellbeing, particularly when it comes to sacrificing time or resources for their benefit?

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 genuine opportunities to serve others?

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 truly serving those who depend on me?

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 neglect my child's religious education?

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

Did you neglect your child's religious education, particularly in regards to passing on the faith that is considered their first and most important religious teachers who are directly responsible for their spiritual formation and eternal salvation?

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 deprioritize attending Mass on a Sunday or Holy Day of Obligation, choosing to skip it for non-serious reasons?

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 and skip Mass on a Sunday or Holy Day of Obligation, allowing worldly pursuits to take precedence over my devotion to 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 and skip Mass on a Sunday or Holy Day of Obligation by allowing distractions such as social media, online gaming, or entertainment to take precedence over my sacred duties?

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.

Merciless

Have I spoken ill of others, using my words to condemn them in thoughtless or hurtful ways?

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

Did I use my words to condemn others, particularly in online settings such as social media or group chats?

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 assist someone who was suffering when I had the means to help them?

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

Did I fail to help someone who was suffering when I had the means to do so, by being overly focused on my own interests and pursuits?

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

Did I fail to help someone who was suffering when I had the means to do so, particularly in moments where technology or digital tools could have aided their distress?

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

Did I speak harsh words to someone who wronged me, denying them 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 you show indifference to someone who was ill?

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.

Did I turn away from showing care and compassion to someone who was ill?

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.

Vainglory

Did I seek to boost my reputation through giving alms?

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

Did I seek to boost my image by giving alms?

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 winning respect from my peers through my online gaming skills, social media presence, or other digital achievements 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 my peers and social media followers than pleasing God? (Note: The rephrased question maintains the original's noun "honor" and verb "Am", while keeping it relevant to the demographic's traits, especially their strong online presence and peer influence.)

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

Theft

Did you intentionally fail to pay your personal debts?

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

Did I intentionally fail to pay debts owed to others?

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

Did I intentionally fail to pay debts, thereby violating the principle of justice that requires honoring my commitments 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 help others steal?

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

Did I help others steal?

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

Did I knowingly assist others in stealing?

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

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

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

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

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

Did I avoid paying others a fair price or wage?

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

Did I avoid paying others a fair price through my dealings in online marketplaces and transactions, especially when it came to purchases or sales that benefited me personally?

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

Did you avoid paying others a fair price or wage, especially when doing business or transactions related to your career goals?

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

False Witness

Did I misrepresent myself to gain an advantage?

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

Did I misrepresent myself to gain an advantage through 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 misrepresent myself to gain an advantage through my 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?

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

Have I deceived others?

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 deceive others through my actions in social media, online communities, or group chats?

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

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

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

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

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

Have I deliberately exaggerated, misrepresented the truth, or lied about others in online platforms, social media, or group chats?

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

Resent

Did I become sterilized?

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

Did I harbor any resentment towards those who have hurt or wronged me?

Holding a grudge with enemies is sinful as it directly contradicts Christ's command to "love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you."

Have I harbored any resentment towards individuals who have wronged me?

Holding a grudge with enemies is sinful as it directly contradicts Christ's command to "love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you."

Have I harbored any resentment towards those who have wronged me, allowing it to consume my thoughts and intentions?

Holding a grudge with enemies is sinful as it directly contradicts Christ's command to "love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you."

Did I deny forgiveness to someone who wronged me in my words?

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

Did you at any time deliberately reject my faith through thoughts, words, or actions?

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 time deliberately reject God's revealed truth through thoughts, abandoning my Catholic faith for a 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.

Effeminacy

Do I fear to speak the name of Jesus, especially in casual conversations with friends who may mock or dismiss my faith?

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 say the name of Jesus and preach the gospel on social media platforms, using my online presence and influence to share the message?

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

Do I fear to speak the name of Jesus and proclaim His message to my peers in casual settings?

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

Did I compromise my beliefs to gain others' approval rather than upholding what I know to be right?

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

Did I compromise my beliefs by conforming to peer pressure rather than upholding what I know to be right?

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

Retaliation

Do I harbor thoughts of retaliation against others in my digital interactions?

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

Do I entertain thoughts of seeking revenge against others, especially in situations where I feel wronged or mistreated?

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

Do you harbor thoughts of personal retaliation against others in your daily life?

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

Imprudence

Have I wasted excessive time on meaningless distractions?

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

Have I spent excessive time engaging in meaningless distractions that could be better used for personal growth, prayer, or service to others?

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

Have I spent excessive time on meaningless distractions within my digital life, such as excessive engagement in online gaming, social media, or streaming services?

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

Sensuality

Did I desire worldly experiences over growth in faith, particularly through excessive engagement in leisure activities such as gaming, attending concerts or music festivals?

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 experiences over growth in my faith, especially through excessive engagement with recreational activities, technology, and social media?

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

Did I use controlled substances to detach from reality?

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 you used controlled substances to detach from reality?

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

Did you intentionally use controlled substances to detach from reality, impairing your God-given reason and free will?

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

Do I allow my desire for recreational gaming, music, and other leisure activities to take precedence over my relationship with God?

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

Do I allow my desires for entertainment, pleasure, and relaxation to become the primary focus of my life, displacing God as the center and highest good?

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

Did I engage in solitary self-stimulation for sensual pleasure?

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

Murder

Did I kill anyone intentionally?

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

Did you endorse or justify the taking of innocent human life through abortion or euthanasia, either by word or deed?

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

Did you actively participate in supporting or advocating for the intentional destruction of human life through abortion or euthanasia?

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

Scandal

Did I try to make someone else commit a scandalous 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 try to make someone else commit a sinful act, such as encouraging them to engage in reckless or irresponsible behavior online?

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 admit my wrongdoing, stubbornly clinging to it?

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

Have I refused to acknowledge my wrongdoing, thus clinging to sin through impenitence?

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

Have I refused to acknowledge my own wrongdoing and change my ways after realizing my thought patterns were leading me further into sin?

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

Blasphemy

Did you swear to God?

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

Did I receive Holy Communion while intentionally disregarding my spiritual state and the sacred nature of this sacrament?

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

Did I receive Holy Communion while knowingly in a state of mortal sin, specifically through actions that profane the real presence of Christ and show 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 speak the name of God carelessly or use it as an expletive in conversation or online interactions?

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 used the name of Jesus or God in a careless, disrespectful, or blasphemous manner, such as using them as insults or curses?

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 used the name of God, Jesus, or any other sacred personage as a byword or curse in your conversations with friends, online communities, or social media platforms?

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 influence how I interact with others, potentially leading me to dominate or control them?

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

Did I allow my desire for power and dominance to influence how I interacted with those around me, such as friends, peers, or colleagues?

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

Did I let my desire for power and dominance influence how I relate to others through my online presence, interactions, and relationships?

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

Greed

Have I made accumulation of money and possessions an idol that drives 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.

Have I made accumulating money and possessions a driving force in my life, turning them into idols that replace trust in God's providence?

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

Oppression

Have I mistreated, harassed, or discriminated against others through my actions or deeds?

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, through my actions, words, or attitude, 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 I view others solely in terms of their utility, usefulness, or potential to benefit me, rather than seeing them as fully human beings created in God's image?

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

Have I reduced others to their usefulness or appearance in my thoughts, rather than seeing them as full members of the human family created in God's image?

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

Have I had actual or simulated sexual acts outside of marriage, including interactions that may have led to lustful thoughts or desires?

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

Have I engaged in simulated or actual sexual acts outside of marriage, compromising my dignity and respect for others through such deeds?

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

Have I committed acts that involve simulated or actual sensual experiences outside of a sacramental marriage, leading to an intention of indulging in 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.

Autonomy

Did you take for granted the blessings 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 attribute my success, good fortune, and positive experiences in life solely to my own abilities, talents, and efforts, forgetting that God's providence has a role in guiding me towards them?

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 question God's existence through my thoughts?

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

Did you entertain doubts about God's existence through your thoughts, words, and actions in a way that questioned your own autonomy and self-governance?

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 prioritize my own abilities without acknowledging God's grace as the source of strength 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.

Did I rely solely on my own abilities and failed to recognize my complete dependence on God's grace in my pursuit of success and stability?

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

Have I relied solely on my own abilities, rather than seeking God's grace in all areas 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.

Envy

Have I felt envy towards others' accomplishments and secretly wished they would be less successful?

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 secretly wished that others' accomplishments and successes would diminish in order to make me feel more accomplished?

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 fixated on coveting others' possessions?

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

Have I been discontent with my own blessings and fixate on coveting others' possessions through thoughts, such as dwelling on what my friends or peers have that I do not?

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

Incontinence

Did you lack self-control in using words that were vulgar or inappropriate to others?

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

Did you lack self-control in your online interactions, speaking to others with words that were vile or unbecoming?

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

Have I been fixated on envying others' material possessions, especially through my excessive engagement with social media, online gaming communities, and streaming services?

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

Gluttony

Did I overindulge in eating or drinking beyond what's reasonable, leading to excess and lack of self-control?

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

Did I overindulge in eating or drinking beyond what's reasonable, especially during social gatherings or events where excessive consumption is often encouraged?

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

Did I overindulge in eating or drinking beyond what's reasonable while engaging in activities that prioritize experiences over material possessions?

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

Prodigality

Have I used my resources in a way that prioritizes excessive and wasteful gambling over my financial obligations or family needs?

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

Have I allowed my financial priorities to be overly influenced by wasteful recreational gaming, compromising my ability to meet my essential needs or support others in genuine 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 excessively risked my financial resources for recreational activities, thereby neglecting my responsibilities to provide for myself or support others in need?

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

Gossip

Have I taken pleasure in discussing others' faults or private affairs, even if what I shared was true, perhaps through online forums, group chats, or casual conversations?

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

Have I used words to take pleasure in sharing others' private affairs, even if what was shared was true?

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

Have I taken pleasure in sharing private details about friends' or acquaintances' lives through words, even if they were true?

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

Impiety

Did you use your devices on Sunday when otherwise it could be avoided, thereby disregarding the Lord'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 you fail to show reverence for Most Blessed Sacrament in situations where it was fitting, such as during worship or devotional practices?

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 the Most Blessed Sacrament, especially during moments of leisure or distraction?

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

Did I fail to show reverence for Most Blessed Sacrament on those occasions when attending concerts or music festivals conflicted with Mass?

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

Impurity

Did I use certain practices, substances, or objects that would prevent pregnancy?

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

Did I use substances to prevent pregnancy?

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

Have I dressed in a way that respects my dignity, especially when engaging in social activities where modesty is important?

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

Have I chosen to dress in attire that is immodest, disrespecting my own dignity?

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

Infidelity

Did you break your marriage vows by engaging in infidelity through deeds?

Fidelity in marriage is viewed as a sacred covenant made before God - not just a contract between people, thus breaking vows is seen as a betrayal of both divine and human trust.

Fornication

Did I engage in 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 engage in 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.

Violence

Have I intentionally acted in ways that brought pain or suffering to someone else through my words or actions?

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

Sorcery

Did you interact with mediums, fortune tellers, tarot card readers, or Ouija boards?

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 through spoken words, online platforms, or other 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.

Have I interacted with mediums, fortune tellers, tarot card readers, or Ouija boards, seeking supernatural knowledge through forbidden means that bypass God's providence and divine will?

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

Presumption

Did you deliberately persist in assuming God's mercy without making any effort to change your sinful ways, taking His forgiveness for granted?

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

Did you deliberately count on God's mercy without making any effort to change your thought patterns that frequently disregard His will?

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 effort to change your ways, taking His forgiveness for granted through mere thoughts or intentions?

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

Did you procrastinate confessing your sins while in a state of rebellion against God's mercy?

Deliberately delaying confession while in mortal sin is a serious offense because it recklessly endangers your soul's salvation, shows contempt for God's mercy through the sacrament of reconciliation, and demonstrates prideful presumption that you'll have time later to repent.

Did you put off going to confession while aware of your sins, expecting to have more time later?

Deliberately delaying confession while in mortal sin is a serious offense because it recklessly endangers your soul's salvation, shows contempt for God's mercy through the sacrament of reconciliation, and demonstrates prideful presumption that you'll have time later to repent.

Apostasy

Have you explicitly rejected the existence of God, either through internal doubts or expressing such sentiments to others, in a way that is contrary to your baptismal vows and understanding of divine revelation?

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

Have you explicitly rejected the existence of God, either internally or in discussions with others through activities such as debating or arguing with friends or acquaintances who may hold similar views?

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 your thoughts or conversations online, perhaps in online forums, social media discussions, or when engaging with others who hold differing views on 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.