A Catholic Examination of Conscience
25-34 Separated 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: 16 minutes
Disobedience
Was I disobedient to my parents through my deeds?
As per the fourth commandment, it's a child's duty to respond to parental love, wisdom, and respect with obedience.
Was I disobedient to my parents by consistently prioritizing my own desires over their wise counsel and guidance?
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 actions, leading them to suffer distress or hardship?
As per the fourth commandment, it's a child's duty to respond to parental love, wisdom, and respect with obedience.
Did you reject the unity of the Church when, in frustration with individuals within it, you criticized or spoke poorly of its members?
Rejecting Church unity due to frustration with individuals is sinful because it confuses the Church's divine nature and eternal truths with the human imperfections of its members, while also violating Christ's prayer "that they may all be one."
Did you reject the unity of the Catholic Church when frustrated with others due to their perceived imperfections, rather than acknowledging Christ's prayer for all to be one?
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 skip any obligatory days such as Ash Wednesday, demonstrating disobedience to Church authority by disregarding prescribed periods of self-denial and penance?
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 mock the Church? Have I ever used words to ridicule, belittle, or show contempt for Christ's established institution on earth in front of others, thereby disrespecting the Body of Christ and undermining its divine authority as guided by the Holy Spirit?
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 disobeyed my mother through my actions and attitudes, thereby disrespecting her authority and role in giving me life and nurturing me?
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 towards my mother and father, disobeyed the command to honor them?
Respecting parental authority helps maintain proper order in families and society, and that parents deserve honor for their role in giving life, nurturing, and forming their children in faith and virtue.
Condoning
Did you, by your words, lead other Catholics away from Sacraments or Mass?
One of the spiritual works of mercy is to admonish the sinner and to correct them out of love and charity instead of condoning sin.
Did I ever, through my words, encourage other Catholics to neglect their spiritual duties, such as receiving Sacraments or attending Mass?
One of the spiritual works of mercy is to admonish the sinner and to correct them out of love and charity instead of condoning sin.
Did I permit my child's error to continue unaddressed, rather than having 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 neglect to address my child's moral error, allowing them to continue in it for the sake of 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.
Have I compromised my values by allowing social media influencers to shape my opinions on what is acceptable 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 condone a funeral where a loved one's remains were cremated?
Failing to advocate for proper burial of human remains is considered sinful as the Church teaches that the body is sacred and deserves reverent burial, with scattering or keeping remains being contrary to the dignity of the human body and resurrection belief.
Did you condone a funeral where human remains were not buried?
Failing to advocate for proper burial of human remains is considered sinful as the Church teaches that the body is sacred and deserves reverent burial, with scattering or keeping remains being contrary to the dignity of the human body and resurrection belief.
Did I permit my child to be exposed to influences that could lead them into sin?
Parents have to protect their children's well-being, guarding them from harmful elements that could damage their faith or lead them into sin.
Did I permit my child to be exposed to bad influences by allowing them to engage in activities that could potentially lead them astray?
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, by my words, condone another Catholic to marry outside the Church?
Marriage is a sacrament within the Catholic faith and thus giving approval and not admonishing the action gives scandal by condoning.
Did you condone another Catholic to marry outside the Church by giving your approval without correcting them?
Marriage is a sacrament within the Catholic faith and thus giving approval and not admonishing the action gives scandal by condoning.
Did I ever silently condone another Catholic to marry outside the Church through my words, thereby giving scandal by failing to speak out against this sacramentally irregular union?
Marriage is a sacrament within the Catholic faith and thus giving approval and not admonishing the action gives scandal by condoning.
Did I ever justify, endorse, or remain silent about abortion or euthanasia through my words?
It's sinful to condone sinful behavior and fail to admonish such sinful actions, especially a grave act that would take a life.
Fornication
Did I forgo a valid Catholic marriage by entering into an unmarried union with someone?
For Catholics, marriage is sacramental and needs to occur in the Church or receive a dispensation if either people are not Catholic.
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.
Did I engage in non-procreative sex outside of a sacramental marriage?
While the sexual natures are a gift, it's a sin to stray away from their ordering toward the unitive and procreative nature within marriage.
Did I have any non-procreative sexual relations outside of marriage?
While the sexual natures are a gift, it's a sin to stray away from their ordering toward the unitive and procreative nature within marriage.
Uncharity
Do I turn away from those who are displaced and in need, without giving them adequate support and hospitality?
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, without shelter?
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 you look down upon others based on their job, nationality, or other trait?
This sin dehumanizes people on the margins when we are called to love each other as a child of God as Jesus loved us.
Do I look down upon others, particularly those from different backgrounds or industries, 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 look down upon others based on their job, nationality, or other trait that doesn't reflect their inherent worth as a child of God?
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 over others' needs?
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 value my own interests over the needs of those around 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.
Do I show disrespect to others through my thoughts, words, and actions in ways that deny their inherent dignity as beings created in God's image?
Treating others with disrespect denies their inherent dignity as beings created in God's image and violates Christ's command to love one another as He has loved us.
Have I spoken to others in a way that shows me losing 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 lose my patience with those around me when faced with frustration or difficulties, failing to reflect God's infinite patience with us?
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 you permit another person to be treated unfairly, perhaps in a workplace or social setting, where their rights or dignity were compromised?
This sin violates the principles of justice, charity, and our moral obligation to defend human dignity and protect our neighbors from harm when we have the ability to intervene.
Did I permit someone else to be denied their rights?
This sin violates the principles of justice, charity, and our moral obligation to defend human dignity and protect our neighbors from harm when we have the ability to intervene.
Have I neglected to provide assistance when someone genuinely needed my help?
Refusing to help those in need violates Jesus's direct command to love our neighbor and practice the works of mercy, as illustrated in the parable of the Good Samaritan.
Have I not intentionally neglected to help others in their time of need?
Refusing to help those in need violates Jesus's direct command to love our neighbor and practice the works of mercy, as illustrated in the parable of the Good Samaritan.
Have I shown compassion and practical assistance to those in need, especially during difficult or uncertain times?
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 uninterested in growing in my faith through spiritual practices that go beyond mere comfort and routine?
Lukewarmness in spiritual growth is sinful because one essentially chooses comfort and mediocrity over the transformative love God offers, which Jesus specifically warned against in Revelation 3:16.
Merciless
Have I publicly criticized, spoken negatively about, or 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 extend help to someone who was suffering when it was within my 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 caring for someone who was experiencing a difficult time in my community?
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 I ignore those who were ill and needed my help?
Neglecting the sick violates Jesus's direct command to care for the ill as if they were Christ himself.
Have I spent excessive time on meaningless distractions, neglecting my duties to others and God's will for my life?
Wasteful pursuits squander the precious time God has given us for meaningful spiritual growth and service to others.
Have I failed to lead my child in prayer, guiding them to deepen their relationship with Christ?
Parents have the duty to be the first teachers of faith to their children, as promised in their child's baptism and outlined in Church teaching as the fundamental responsibility of Christian parenthood.
Have I failed to help my child deepen their understanding of our Catholic faith?
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 with my child?
Parents have the duty to be the first teachers of faith to their children, as promised in their child's baptism and outlined in Church teaching as the fundamental responsibility of Christian parenthood.
In what ways have I put my own interests ahead of my family's genuine needs and wellbeing?
Neglecting family duties is considered sinful because it violates both divine law and natural law, where God entrusts us with specific responsibilities to nurture, protect, and care for our family members as part of our fundamental Christian vocation.
In what ways have I put my own interests ahead of the genuine needs and wellbeing of my family?
Neglecting family duties is considered sinful because it violates both divine law and natural law, where God entrusts us with specific responsibilities to nurture, protect, and care for our family members as part of our fundamental Christian vocation.
In what ways have I put my own interests ahead of the genuine needs and well-being of my family?
Neglecting family duties is considered sinful because it violates both divine law and natural law, where God entrusts us with specific responsibilities to nurture, protect, and care for our family members as part of our fundamental Christian vocation.
Did I adequately prioritize my child's religious education, despite being busy with other responsibilities?
Parents have a primary and sacred duty to pass on the faith to their children, as they are considered their children's first and most important religious teachers who are directly responsible for their spiritual formation and eternal salvation.
Did I fail to provide regular spiritual guidance to my child, thereby neglecting their education in matters of faith?
Parents have a primary and sacred duty to pass on the faith to their children, as they are considered their children's first and most important religious teachers who are directly responsible for their spiritual formation and eternal salvation.
Did I deprioritize Sunday Mass or Holy Day of Obligation, treating it as less important than worldly pursuits, such as sports, gaming, or personal interests?
deliberately choosing to skip Mass for non-serious reasons shows disobedience to Church authority, ingratitude for Christ's sacrifice, and places worldly priorities above our highest obligation to worship God.
Did I deprioritize attending Mass on Sundays or Holy Days of Obligation for worldly pursuits, leading me away from 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, choosing to engage in leisure activities instead of fulfilling 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.
Vainglory
Did I seek praise from others when 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 praise for sharing my charitable giving online?
Seeking praise for charitable giving is sinful because it transforms an act meant to glorify God and help others into an exercise of pride and self-glorification.
Did I seek praise for my charitable giving through social media posts, perhaps sharing photos of myself doing volunteer work or donating money to charity?
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 gaining approval from others than pleasing God?
Vainglory corrupts our good actions by doing them for human acclaim rather than for God's glory, making us slaves to others' opinions rather than true servants of God.
Am I more focused on seeking validation from my social media presence, work achievements, or family expectations 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 concerned with what others think of me than with 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 convictions when faced with social pressure or discomfort?
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.
Did you publicly distance yourself from your faith in Jesus Christ when faced with social pressure or discomfort among your peers, colleagues, or acquaintances?
This is a public betrayal of Jesus' teaching that "whoever denies me before men, I will also deny before my Father who is in heaven," effectively choosing human respect over fidelity to God.
Theft
Did you intentionally fail to pay your debts, thereby neglecting your financial 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 you intentionally fail to pay your debts that were due to others, thus depriving them of what is rightfully theirs?
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 repay debts owed to others?
Intentionally failing to pay debts is sinful because it violates both the seventh commandment against theft and the principle of justice that requires honoring our commitments to others.
Did you 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 you 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 their rightful property?
While not stealing yourself, this sin still participates in breaking the seventh commandment and shows disregard for others' rightful property and dignity.
Have I 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 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.
Did I avoid paying others a fair price or wage through my deeds?
Failing to pay a fair wage or price is a sin because it violates both the seventh commandment against stealing and the principle of social justice.
Did I avoid paying others a just price for goods and services in my commercial dealings?
Failing to pay a fair wage or price is a sin because it violates both the seventh commandment against stealing and the principle of social justice.
False Witness
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 misrepresent myself to gain an advantage, especially through words that might have been spoken in online interactions or social media conversations?
This is considered sinful because deliberately deceiving others for personal gain violates the eighth commandment against bearing false witness and breaks trust in human relationships while failing to reflect Christian virtues of honesty and integrity.
Did I misrepresent myself to gain an advantage in interactions where honesty is expected, such as online profiles or conversations with acquaintances?
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 I deceived others through my words or actions?
Deceiving others is a form of bearing false witness, damages trust between people, and breaks down human relationships that should reflect God's truth and love.
Did I lie to 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 through my words or actions, giving false testimony that damages trust and breaks down relationships?
Deceiving others is a form of bearing false witness, damages trust between people, and breaks down human relationships that should reflect God's truth and love.
Have I deliberately exaggerated, misrepresented the truth, or lied about others in social situations, online interactions, or conversations related to work, finances, or personal goals?
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 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 casual conversations, work meetings, or online interactions?
Bearing false witness puts one's desires over truth, justice, and love of God.
Resent
Have I become sterilized?
This is considered sinful because deliberately altering one's fertility represents an act of defiance against God and implies we know better than divine wisdom, placing our desires for control above trust in God's plan for our lives.
Did I become sterilized through some deliberate act?
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 deliberately become sterilized, thereby asserting your own desires for control over God's plan for your life?
This is considered sinful because deliberately altering one's fertility represents an act of defiance against God and implies we know better than divine wisdom, placing our desires for control above trust in God's plan for our lives.
Have I allowed resentments to harbor within me against those who have wronged me, causing me to hold grudges or seek revenge?
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 harbor any resentment towards those who have wronged you in your thoughts, even if only for a moment?
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 our personal relationships?
Refusing to forgive others is sinful because it contradicts Jesus's direct command to forgive and His example of mercy, while also blocking God's forgiveness of our own sins.
Did I hold onto resentment towards someone who wronged me, even after praying for 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.
Have I nursed anger in my thoughts, leading to feelings of resentment and hurt towards others?
Uncontrolled anger corrupts our own heart, damages our relationship with both God and neighbor.
Did I, through thoughts, deliberately reject my Catholic faith for any length of time?
This sin represents a deliberate rejection of God's revealed truth and the covenant relationship established through baptism, breaking the promise to remain faithful to Christ and His Church.
Have I ever deliberately rejected God's revealed truth through thoughts of abandoning my faith, for any length of time?
This sin represents a deliberate rejection of God's revealed truth and the covenant relationship established through baptism, breaking the promise to remain faithful to Christ and His Church.
Effeminacy
Do I fear to say the name of Jesus publicly, especially in front of those who may oppose or mock me?
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 you fear to share the message of Christ and invite others to follow Him?
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 standing firm in what I know is right, especially when faced with pressure from peers, social media, or societal expectations?
Prioritizing human approval over standing firm in God's truth demonstrates both moral cowardice and places human opinion above divine authority.
Did you remain silent about Church teachings to avoid social discomfort or conflict in your daily life, especially when engaging in online discussions or conversations with friends and acquaintances?
While it is a hardship and uncomfortable, we should not display softtness, but rather be witnesses to the Truth.
Did I intentionally withhold Church teachings to avoid discomfort or disagreement?
While it is a hardship and uncomfortable, we should not display softtness, but rather be witnesses to the Truth.
Retaliation
Do you harbor thoughts of retaliation 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 you harbor thoughts of personal retaliation 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.
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 experiences over growth in spiritual life?
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 faith, leading me to prioritize temporal pleasures above my eternal relationship with God?
Prioritizing worldly pleasures and experiences over spiritual development is considered sinful as it violates the First Commandment by placing temporal desires above one's eternal relationship with God.
Did I use controlled substances to escape 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 use controlled substances to detach from reality, thereby 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.
Did I intentionally employ controlled substances to cloud my judgment and impair my ability to make good decisions?
Using controlled substances deliberately impairs your God-given reason and free will, and an attempt to avoid dealing with life's challenges rather than facing them with God's help.
Do I prioritize my own desires for pleasure over my relationship with God, especially in moments of solitude or when no one is watching?
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 desires for entertainment, leisure activities, and personal gratification more important than 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 give undue priority to my own desires and pleasures in my thoughts, 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.
Scandal
Did I try to lead someone into committing a sinful act through my words, actions, or influence?
Leading others to sin (also called "scandal") is sinful because it actively harms another person's soul by encouraging them away from God, making you spiritually responsible both for your own sin and for potentially damaging another's relationship with God.
Did you try to lead someone else into sinful behavior through your actions?
Leading others to sin (also called "scandal") is sinful because it actively harms another person's soul by encouraging them away from God, making you spiritually responsible both for your own sin and for potentially damaging another's relationship with God.
Impenitence
Have I clung to a sin against myself by refusing to admit my wrongdoing, even when it has come to mind during moments of quiet reflection?
Impenitence is sinful because refusing to repent is a prideful rejection of God's mercy.
Have I allowed myself to stubbornly hold onto a particular sin, refusing to let go of my wrongdoing even when faced with God's mercy?
Impenitence is sinful because refusing to repent is a prideful rejection of God's mercy.
Blasphemy
Did you swear to God in anger, frustration, or disrespect, even if it was just a momentary lapse?
This sin violates the Second Commandment by treating God's holy name with disrespect rather than reverence.
Did you receive Holy Communion while knowingly in a state of serious sin, having neglected your prayer life and spiritual practices?
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 being in a state of sin due to my intentional thoughts, words, or actions during my sporting activities, gaming sessions, or when consuming streaming services that may have led me to a place where I am unworthy to partake in the Eucharist?
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 being aware that your heart was not fully in sync with God's will?
This mortal sin is a form of sacrilege and profanes the real presence of Christ and shows grave disrespect for the sacrament by receiving unworthily.
Did you use the name of God, Jesus Christ, or sacred persons as a byword or curse when speaking?
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 sacred name of God, that is, Jesus, as a curse or byword in conversation?
This is sinful as using God's holy name carelessly or disrespectfully shows contempt for His divine nature and fails to give proper honor to the sacred name of God, which should only be used in prayer, worship, or respectful discussion.
Did I use the name of Jesus or God in a way that was careless or disrespectfully casual, rather than with reverence and proper honor?
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 control, stemming from ambition, influence how I treat others in my pursuit of goals or recognition?
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.
Oppression
Did I commit the sin of mistreating, harassing, or discriminating against others through my actions?
It's a sin to execute an unjust and cruel exercise of power or authority over others instead of respecting the God-given dignity of every human person.
Did I engage in behaviors that unjustly harassed, discriminated against, or mistreated 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.
Lust
Did I reduce others to their usefulness, or what they could do for me, rather than seeing them as complex individuals deserving of love and respect?
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 see others solely in terms of their usefulness to me, rather than recognizing their inherent worth 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,
Did I look at others primarily for what they could provide me in terms of convenience, entertainment, or personal gain, rather than seeing them as fellow 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 had actual or simulated lustful acts outside of marriage, inspired by impure 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 intentionally engaged in any simulated or actual acts outside of marriage that give occasion for 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 I take for granted my successes in life, forgetting to acknowledge their source in God's providence?
Believing that one's blessings are due to one's own self-sufficiency and determination is a sin as it is a rejection of recognizing Divine Providence as being ultimately responsible.
Did I take for granted the success and accomplishments in my career and personal life, forgetting to acknowledge their source in God's providence?
Believing that one's blessings are due to one's own self-sufficiency and determination is a sin as it is a rejection of recognizing Divine Providence as being ultimately responsible.
Did I take for granted my accomplishments, forgetting to acknowledge the role that God's providence played in my success?
Believing that one's blessings are due to one's own self-sufficiency and determination is a sin as it is a rejection of recognizing Divine Providence as being ultimately responsible.
Have I entertained doubts about God's existence in my thoughts?
Deliberately entertaining doubts about God's existence is a sin against faith because it questions the most fundamental truth of our faith and shows a lack of trust in God's clear self-revelation through creation, scripture, and the Church's teachings.
Did I solely depend on my own abilities in achieving success without recognizing my complete dependence on God's grace?
Pride is self-reliance repeats Lucifer's original sin of wanting independence from God and fails to acknowledge our complete dependence on divine grace.
Did I rely solely on my own self-reliance, neglecting to humbly acknowledge and depend on God's grace in all aspects of my life?
Pride is self-reliance repeats Lucifer's original sin of wanting independence from God and fails to acknowledge our complete dependence on divine grace.
Did I lean on my own expertise and neglected to surrender to God's guidance in making decisions?
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 lose their success?
Envy leads us to have discontent for another's possessions so we won't feel the pain of comparison or perceived lack in our own lives.
Have I been discontent with what I have and fixate on coveting others' possessions, often through my thoughts while browsing social media or online platforms?
This sin stems from ingratitude for one's own blessings and letting material desires control our hearts.
Incontinence
Did I lack self-control and speak to others using words that were vulgar or inappropriate, particularly in situations where I was under stress or pressure from social expectations?
This sin of incontinence shows a lack of self-restraint and violates the dignity of others.
Did you lack self-control when using language that was vulgar or inappropriate, causing offense to others?
This sin of incontinence shows a lack of self-restraint and violates the dignity of others.
Did I lack self-control in my words, speaking to others with language that was unbecoming or hurtful?
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 when it came to treats or drinks during family gatherings or celebrations?
This sin of gluttony demonstrates an inordinate attachment to worldly pleasures and rejects the call to temperance.
Did you overindulge in eating or drinking, treating your body as an end rather than a means to achieve virtue?
This sin of gluttony demonstrates an inordinate attachment to worldly pleasures and rejects the call to temperance.
Prodigality
Have I been excessively and wastefully spending money on leisure activities to take precedence over my financial obligations or family needs?
This sin violates the virtue of stewardship by recklessly risking resources God has entrusted to us, while potentially harming our ability to provide for family and those in need.
Gossip
Have I taken pleasure in speaking ill of others through casual conversations, even if what was shared seemed harmless at the time?
Gossip violates human dignity and charity by harming others' reputations for our own entertainment or pride.
Have I indulged in sharing others' private affairs through conversations, messages, or social media posts, even if what was shared was true?
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, when it could have been avoided?
It's irreverent to work on a Sunday as it's a holy day of rest, worship, and a day of protest against the servitude of work and the worship of money (CCC).
Did you engage in work on a Sunday, a day set aside for rest and worship, when it could have been avoided?
It's irreverent to work on a Sunday as it's a holy day of rest, worship, and a day of protest against the servitude of work and the worship of money (CCC).
Did you engage in work on a Sunday when it otherwise could have been avoided, thereby diminishing your respect for 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).
Did I fail to show reverence for the Most Blessed Sacrament, especially during daily life's hectic routines or solemn church services?
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 in times of distraction, such as during sports events or when consuming media?
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 to prevent pregnancy without considering its unitive and procreative purposes in marriage?
This sin intentionally separates the unitive and procreative purposes of marriage and violates the proper use of one's sexuality.
Did you use practices, substances, or objects to prevent pregnancy in ways that intentionally separate the unitive and procreative purposes of marriage?
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 is immodest for my own dignity, potentially violating chastity?
Wearing attire that's exceptionally revealing or indecent violates chastity and beckons sins from others.
Have I dressed in a way that respects my dignity, especially when I am at home among family or friends?
Wearing attire that's exceptionally revealing or indecent violates chastity and beckons sins from others.
Have I dressed in a way that immodestly reveals my body, lacking respect for my own dignity?
Wearing attire that's exceptionally revealing or indecent violates chastity and beckons sins from others.
Infidelity
Did I break any promises made in the Sacrament of Matrimony?
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.
Violence
Have I knowingly acted in ways that deliberately caused pain, hurt, or suffering to someone else through my words, actions, or deeds?
When we deliberately harm others, we attack their God-given dignity.
Adultery
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.
Murder
Did I condone, through my words or actions, 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.
Did you participate in the intentional taking of another's life by supporting, advocating for, or assisting in activities that promote 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.
Did you participate in supporting or advocating for actions that intentionally take another's life, such as assisted suicide 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.
Sorcery
Have you interacted with mediums, fortune tellers, tarot card readers, or Ouija boards using your words?
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 you engage in any occult practices or consult forbidden sources for guidance, such as tarot card readers, Ouija boards, or other forms of divination?
This sin is a violation of the First Commandment because it attempts to bypass God's providence and divine will by seeking supernatural knowledge through forbidden means, effectively placing trust in occult practices rather than in God.
Have you interacted with those who claim to possess supernatural knowledge or powers, such as mediums, fortune tellers, tarot card readers, or Ouija board operators?
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 sinful behavior, counting on God's mercy without making any effort to change in your personal or spiritual life?
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 presumptuously assume God's mercy in your thought processes, without genuinely attempting to change or improve them?
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, assuming forgiveness without making any effort to change your life or thoughts, when faced with difficulties or challenges?
Presumption of God's mercy is a sin against hope because it takes His forgiveness for granted without true repentance or effort to amend one's life, showing disrespect for divine justice and mercy.
Did you put off going to confession while knowingly in a state of sin, demonstrating a presumptuous attitude that God's mercy would be available 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.
Did you negligently delay going to confession while in a state of sin, recklessly endangering your own soul's salvation by presuming God would wait for you?
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 thoughts or external expressions?
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 through doubts or discussions about faith, or externally by dismissing His role in your life to others?
Denying God's existence after having been baptized apostasy is one of the gravest sins possible because it is declaring the Author of Life and Source of all being to be non-existent, which directly contradicts both reason and divine revelation.
Have you explicitly rejected the existence of God, either through your thoughts, words, or actions, after having been exposed to the truth of His divinity through various means such as education, media, or personal relationships?
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.