A Catholic Examination of Conscience
35-44 Married Father with Children Under 18
In preparing for confession, please read through the examination questions and explanations thoughtfully, reflecting on each point and honestly identifying where you've fallen short of God's call in your life. You may click and remove any irrelevant ones as you proceed. Take mental note of any serious sins that require confession, focusing on being thorough but not scrupulous, then use these insights to make a complete and sincere confession to your priest.
Updated: December 3, 2024
Read Time: 15 minutes
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 in ways that undermined their authority 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 by intentionally refusing to follow their guidance on important matters?
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 Catholic Church when experiencing frustration due to imperfections in your community?
Rejecting Church unity due to frustration with individuals is sinful because it confuses the Church's divine nature and eternal truths with the human imperfections of its members, while also violating Christ's prayer "that they may all be one."
Did you deliberately skip an obligatory day of fasting on Ash Wednesday?
This is considered sinful because deliberately disregarding prescribed days of fasting represents disobedience to Church authority and fails to honor our spiritual obligation to practice self-denial and penance during sacred times.
Did I use my words to belittle or mock the Church?
Mocking the church shows contempt for Christ's established institution on earth, disrespects the Body of Christ, and undermines the Church's divine authority as guided by the Holy Spirit.
Have I through my actions and attitudes dishonored my mother and father, to whom I owe reverence and respect for their guidance and nurturing of 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 disobeyed the authority given to me by my mother and father?
Respecting parental authority helps maintain proper order in families and society, and that parents deserve honor for their role in giving life, nurturing, and forming their children in faith and virtue.
Have I dishonored my mother through my actions and attitudes by failing to show respect for her authority and influence 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.
Condoning
Did I condone other Catholics from missing out on 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 condone other Catholics from staying away from Sacraments or Mass by leading them to believe it was acceptable?
One of the spiritual works of mercy is to admonish the sinner and to correct them out of love and charity instead of condoning sin.
Did I encourage fellow Catholics to stay away from 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 you condone a funeral where the deceased was not properly buried, disregarding their dignity and the Church's teachings on the sacredness of human remains?
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 allow my child to be exposed to bad influences, thus putting their spiritual well-being at risk?
Parents have to protect their children's well-being, guarding them from harmful elements that could damage their faith or lead them into sin.
Have I permitted my child to be exposed to bad influences, possibly through social media, peer relationships, or involvement in activities that could compromise their faith or values?
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 in our home, through activities or media that could lead them away from God's teachings?
Parents have to protect their children's well-being, guarding them from harmful elements that could damage their faith or lead them into sin.
Did I give my approval or remain silent when another Catholic chose to marry outside of the Church, potentially giving scandal by condoning their decision?
Marriage is a sacrament within the Catholic faith and thus giving approval and not admonishing the action gives scandal by condoning.
Did I give approval to someone for marrying outside of the Catholic Church?
Marriage is a sacrament within the Catholic faith and thus giving approval and not admonishing the action gives scandal by condoning.
Uncharity
Do I turn away from strangers in need, especially those who are displaced?
Per the corporal works of mercy, we are to love our neighbors by feeding the hungry and sheltering the homeless and respecting their dignity especially in times of hardship.
Do I turn away from those who are displaced, especially during 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?
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, viewing them as less worthy due to a perceived difference from myself?
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 opinions about others based on their job, nationality, or other trait?
This sin dehumanizes people on the margins when we are called to love each other as a child of God as Jesus loved us.
Did I prioritize my own interests over those of others in family bonding experiences?
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 place my own needs above the well-being of those around me, particularly in moments when making sacrifices for others would have been a more loving choice?
This is considered sinful because excessive self-focus and selfishness violates Christ's command to love our neighbors as ourselves and contradicts the Christian call to practice charity, compassion, and self-sacrifice for others.
Did you prioritize your own needs over the well-being of those around you, such as family members or friends?
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 treated others in my life, such as friends, family members, and colleagues, as children of God?
Treating others with disrespect denies their inherent dignity as beings created in God's image and violates Christ's command to love one another as He has loved us.
Have I treated others in a way that shows contempt for their dignity as children of God?
Treating others with disrespect denies their inherent dignity as beings created in God's image and violates Christ's command to love one another as He has loved us.
Did you allow someone else 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 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 give someone else an unjust advantage by permitting them to act in ways that were unfair to others?
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 failed to assist others when they needed assistance?
Refusing to help those in need violates Jesus's direct command to love our neighbor and practice the works of mercy, as illustrated in the parable of the Good Samaritan.
Have I not been willing to assist those in need when they have reached out for help?
Refusing to help those in need violates Jesus's direct command to love our neighbor and practice the works of mercy, as illustrated in the parable of the Good Samaritan.
Have I shown compassion and practical assistance to those in my life who are struggling, such as family members or close friends facing financial hardship, illness, or personal difficulties.
Failing to help those in need violates Christ's direct command to love our neighbor and care for the poor, effectively refusing to recognize Jesus Himself in the suffering of others.
Have I shown compassion and practical assistance to those in my life who are struggling or in need, especially within my family and community?
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 been halfhearted in my pursuit of love for God, especially when faced with worldly distractions and competing priorities?
We tend to sin by failing in effort to know and love God while exerting other efforts on worldly things.
Lukewarmness
Am I uninterested in growing in my faith, choosing comfort and mediocrity over the transformative love of God?
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 reluctant to deepen my understanding and commitment to my faith?
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 indifferent to growing in my spiritual life?
Lukewarmness in spiritual growth is sinful because one essentially chooses comfort and mediocrity over the transformative love God offers, which Jesus specifically warned against in Revelation 3:16.
Merciless
Have I spoken poorly of others, using my words to condemn them?
Condemning others is a sin of mercilessness because it places oneself in God's role as judge and denies others the same mercy and forgiveness that God extends to all of us.
Have I spoken harshly against others, judging them without mercy?
Condemning others is a sin of mercilessness because it places oneself in God's role as judge and denies others the same mercy and forgiveness that God extends to all of us.
Callousness
Did you intentionally withhold your help when someone was suffering financially, even though you had the means to assist them?
As part of the corporal works of mercy, we're called to be merciful and compassionate to those in distress.
Did I turn away from caring for 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.
Sloth
Did I turn away from those who were physically hurting or needed my assistance, such as neighbors or friends in distress?
Neglecting the sick violates Jesus's direct command to care for the ill as if they were Christ himself.
Did I neglect those who were in need of my help when they came to me?
Neglecting the sick violates Jesus's direct command to care for the ill as if they were Christ himself.
Have I neglected to foster my child's knowledge of Christ, leaving them without a clear understanding of their 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 failed to help my child grow in faith and love for God, particularly through regular conversations about their spiritual life?
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 instruct my child in their faith, thereby depriving them of essential guidance and support in their spiritual development?
Parents have the duty to be the first teachers of faith to their children, as promised in their child's baptism and outlined in Church teaching as the fundamental responsibility of Christian parenthood.
In what ways have I put my own interests ahead of my family's genuine needs and wellbeing?
Neglecting family duties is considered sinful because it violates both divine law and natural law, where God entrusts us with specific responsibilities to nurture, protect, and care for our family members as part of our fundamental Christian vocation.
In what ways have I put my own interests ahead of my family's genuine needs and wellbeing, compromising their well-being for personal gain?
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.
Have I put my own needs ahead of my family's genuine well-being, neglecting their true interests in favor of my own desires?
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 allow my child's religious education to suffer because I did not make it a priority?
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 fail to provide your child with a regular opportunity for religious instruction and guidance?
Parents have a primary and sacred duty to pass on the faith to their children, as they are considered their children's first and most important religious teachers who are directly responsible for their spiritual formation and eternal salvation.
Did I neglect to pray daily?
This is a sin because daily prayer is our essential lifeline of communication with God - deliberately neglecting it demonstrates ingratitude to our Creator, breaks our fundamental relationship with Him, and violates the First Commandment's call to properly worship God
Did I deprioritize attending Mass on a Sunday or Holy Day of Obligation 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 intentionally deprioritize and skip Mass on a Sunday or Holy Day, placing worldly priorities above my highest obligation to worship God?
deliberately choosing to skip Mass for non-serious reasons shows disobedience to Church authority, ingratitude for Christ's sacrifice, and places worldly priorities above our highest obligation to worship God.
Did you deprioritize and skip Mass on a Sunday or Holy Day of Obligation for non-serious reasons, showing disobedience to Church authority, and neglecting your relationship with 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 for giving alms due to a desire for self-approval?
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 charitable giving in my online activities?
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 concerned with seeking validation from others than pleasing God in my pursuit of success and achievement?
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 Catholic faith when faced with social pressure or discomfort in your community, workplace, or among friends?
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 deny or distance yourself from your faith when faced with social pressure, ridicule, or discomfort among family members, friends, 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 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 neglect to pay my 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 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 something?
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? This sin still participates in breaking the seventh commandment and shows disregard for others' rightful property and dignity, even if it was done through mere silence or complicity.
While not stealing yourself, this sin still participates in breaking the seventh commandment and shows disregard for others' rightful property and dignity.
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 intentionally pay others less than they deserved for work done?
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, perhaps by exaggerating my qualifications, credentials, or achievements in a work-related context?
This is considered sinful because deliberately deceiving others for personal gain violates the eighth commandment against bearing false witness and breaks trust in human relationships while failing to reflect Christian virtues of honesty and integrity.
Have you intentionally misrepresented yourself in your personal or professional life, using words to deceive others for your own gain?
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 intentionally misled 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 led others to believe something false through my words or actions?
Deceiving others is a form of bearing false witness, damages trust between people, and breaks down human relationships that should reflect God's truth and love.
Have I deliberately exaggerated, misrepresented the truth, or lied about others in formal or informal conversations, meetings, presentations, or through written communications?
Bearing false witness puts one's desires over truth, justice, and love of God.
Have I deliberately exaggerated, misrepresented the truth, or lied about others in casual conversations or online interactions?
Bearing false witness puts one's desires over truth, justice, and love of God.
Have I exaggerated, misrepresented the truth, or lied about others in discussions at work, social gatherings, or online platforms?
Bearing false witness puts one's desires over truth, justice, and love of God.
Resent
Have you become sterilized?
This is considered sinful because deliberately altering one's fertility represents an act of defiance against God and implies we know better than divine wisdom, placing our desires for control above trust in God's plan for our lives.
Have I ever harbored resentment in my heart towards someone who has 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 in my heart towards those who have wronged me, thereby failing to love them as Christ has commanded?
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 someone who has wronged you, such as an acquaintance, coworker, or neighbor?
Holding a grudge with enemies is sinful as it directly contradicts Christ's command to "love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you."
Did I harbor resentment towards someone who wronged me through 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.
Have I denied forgiveness to someone who wronged me, refusing to let go of the hurt they caused?
Refusing to forgive others is sinful because it contradicts Jesus's direct command to forgive and His example of mercy, while also blocking God's forgiveness of our own sins.
Have you at any point in your life intentionally stopped practicing or observing the Catholic faith?
This sin represents a deliberate rejection of God's revealed truth and the covenant relationship established through baptism, breaking the promise to remain faithful to Christ and His Church.
Effeminacy
Do I fear to say the name of Jesus in conversations with family members, friends, and coworkers?
Being ashamed or afraid to proclaim Christ represents a denial of our baptismal call to evangelize, shows lack of trust in God's protection, and fails to fulfill Jesus's command to "go and make disciples of all nations."
Do I fear to boldly proclaim Jesus' name in my interactions with others?
Being ashamed or afraid to proclaim Christ represents a denial of our baptismal call to evangelize, shows lack of trust in God's protection, and fails to fulfill Jesus's command to "go and make disciples of all nations."
Did I sacrifice my convictions for the approval of others, instead of standing firm in what I know is right?
Prioritizing human approval over standing firm in God's truth demonstrates both moral cowardice and places human opinion above divine authority.
Did you remain silent about Church teachings to avoid discomfort or conflict with your spouse, children, or friends?
While it is a hardship and uncomfortable, we should not display softtness, but rather be witnesses to the Truth.
Did I remain silent about Church teachings to avoid speaking up for my values in potentially uncomfortable social situations?
While it is a hardship and uncomfortable, we should not display softtness, but rather be witnesses to the Truth.
Worldliness
Do I excessively prioritize my possessions, viewing them as essential to my happiness and well-being?
From a Catholic perspective, obsessing over possessions is considered sinful because it makes material things an idol that takes precedence over God and prevents spiritual growth while hindering one's ability to be generous and detached from worldly goods.
Retaliation
Do I harbor thoughts of revenge against others?
Entertaining thoughts of revenge is sinful because it rejects Christ's teaching of forgiveness and love of enemies, choosing instead to harbor malice and a desire for personal retaliation rather than leaving justice to God.
Do I harbor thoughts of personal retaliation when wronged?
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.
Lust
Have I used my eyes, imagination, or mind to interact with pornography?
Interacting with pornography reduces human beings to mere objects for personal gratification, violating their inherent dignity and worth as children of God.
Did you engage your mind with pornography?
Interacting with pornography reduces human beings to mere objects for personal gratification, violating their inherent dignity and worth as children of God.
Have I thought about or looked at pornography?
Interacting with pornography reduces human beings to mere objects for personal gratification, violating their inherent dignity and worth as children of God.
Have I reduced others to their usefulness, rather than seeing their full humanity, in my thoughts, words, or actions?
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, rather than seeing them as full 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,
Did you reduce others to their usefulness, rather than seeing them as full 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 engaged in actual or simulated sexual acts outside of marriage through 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 had actual or simulated sexual acts outside of marriage, including viewing explicit content or engaging in behaviors that stimulate lustful 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 had actual or simulated sexual acts outside of marriage, which may have involved 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.
Imprudence
Have I spent excessive time on activities that distract me from my responsibilities, leading to wasted opportunities for spiritual growth and service to others?
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?
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 experiences that distracted me from my relationship with God, causing me to prioritize fleeting pleasures over eternal growth in faith?
Prioritizing worldly pleasures and experiences over spiritual development is considered sinful as it violates the First Commandment by placing temporal desires above one's eternal relationship with God.
Did I desire worldly pleasures more than growth in faith through my participation in outdoor activities, sports, hobbies, or other leisure pursuits?
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 deliberately use controlled substances to attempt 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 I used substances that impair my God-given reason and free will, attempting to detach from reality rather than facing life's challenges with God's help?
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 use controlled substances to escape reality, rather than facing life's challenges with courage and faith?
Using controlled substances deliberately impairs your God-given reason and free will, and an attempt to avoid dealing with life's challenges rather than facing them with God's help.
Do you prioritize your own pleasures and desires over your relationship with God, especially in moments when they may conflict?
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 place my own desires for leisure activities above my commitment to God's will?
This sin makes idol of physical or emotional gratification, turning what should be a gift from God into the primary focus of one's life, displacing God as the center and highest good.
Do I allow my pursuit of personal comfort, leisure, and entertainment to distract me from nurturing a deeper 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 you attempt to influence someone else to commit a sinful act through your words, actions, or deeds?
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 lead someone else into sinful behavior through my actions?
Leading others to sin (also called "scandal") is sinful because it actively harms another person's soul by encouraging them away from God, making you spiritually responsible both for your own sin and for potentially damaging another's relationship with God.
Impenitence
Have I refused to acknowledge my wrongdoing, clinging to it despite God's mercy?
Impenitence is sinful because refusing to repent is a prideful rejection of God's mercy.
Have I refused to admit my own wrongdoing, choosing instead to cling to sinful behavior without seeking God's mercy?
Impenitence is sinful because refusing to repent is a prideful rejection of God's mercy.
Blasphemy
Did I swear against God, using words that disrespected His holy name?
This sin violates the Second Commandment by treating God's holy name with disrespect rather than reverence.
Did I use God's name in vain, swearing an oath that was not meant to be kept?
This sin violates the Second Commandment by treating God's holy name with disrespect rather than reverence.
Have I received Holy Communion while knowingly in a state of sin, thereby showing grave disrespect for the sacrament by receiving unworthily?
This mortal sin is a form of sacrilege and profanes the real presence of Christ and shows grave disrespect for the sacrament by receiving unworthily.
Did you receive Holy Communion while knowingly in a state of serious sin, which would be a grave offense against God and profane the real presence of Christ?
This mortal sin is a form of sacrilege and profanes the real presence of Christ and shows grave disrespect for the sacrament by receiving unworthily.
Have you used the name of God or Jesus Christ as a curse or byword in your conversation, online interactions, or through spoken words?
This is sinful as using God's holy name carelessly or disrespectfully shows contempt for His divine nature and fails to give proper honor to the sacred name of God, which should only be used in prayer, worship, or respectful discussion.
Have I spoken the name of God disrespectfully 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.
Ambition
Did I allow my desire for power and dominance to influence how I interacted with others, leading me to prioritize my own interests above their needs and well-being?
inordinate ambition and the obsession with power corrupts the soul by placing our desire to dominate and control above God's authority, turning us away from humble service and toward prideful self-exaltation.
Did my desire for power and dominance let me treat others unfairly, especially in high-pressure situations where I may have felt threatened or challenged?
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 your desire for power and dominance lead you to prioritize your own interests over the needs and well-being of those around you?
inordinate ambition and the obsession with power corrupts the soul by placing our desire to dominate and control above God's authority, turning us away from humble service and toward prideful self-exaltation.
Greed
Did I make accumulating wealth, possessions, and material goods a top priority in my life?
This sin makes money an idol that replaces trust in God's providence, turning what should be a tool for good into an object of worship.
Oppression
Have you unjustly dominated or bullied others through your words, actions, or decisions?
It's a sin to execute an unjust and cruel exercise of power or authority over others instead of respecting the God-given dignity of every human person.
Autonomy
Did I take for granted the good things in my life, forgetting to acknowledge their source in God's providence?
Believing that one's blessings are due to one's own self-sufficiency and determination is a sin as it is a rejection of recognizing Divine Providence as being ultimately responsible.
Did you take for granted the blessings in your life, assuming them to be solely the result of your own efforts rather than acknowledging God's providence?
Believing that one's blessings are due to one's own self-sufficiency and determination is a sin as it is a rejection of recognizing Divine Providence as being ultimately responsible.
Did you entertain doubts about God's existence?
Deliberately entertaining doubts about God's existence is a sin against faith because it questions the most fundamental truth of our faith and shows a lack of trust in God's clear self-revelation through creation, scripture, and the Church's teachings.
Did I entertain any doubts about God's existence in my thoughts, particularly when faced with uncertainties or challenging situations?
Deliberately entertaining doubts about God's existence is a sin against faith because it questions the most fundamental truth of our faith and shows a lack of trust in God's clear self-revelation through creation, scripture, and the Church's teachings.
Have I entertained doubts about God's existence through my thoughts, leading me to question the fundamental truth of our faith?
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 fail to acknowledge my dependence on God's grace in all aspects of life, instead trusting solely in my own abilities?
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 trust solely in my own abilities, neglecting to acknowledge my dependence on God's guidance in all aspects of life?
Pride is self-reliance repeats Lucifer's original sin of wanting independence from God and fails to acknowledge our complete dependence on divine grace.
Did I rely solely on my own abilities, skills, and knowledge to achieve success in various areas of life, neglecting my dependence on God's guidance and providence?
Pride is self-reliance repeats Lucifer's original sin of wanting independence from God and fails to acknowledge our complete dependence on divine grace.
Envy
Have I secretly wished others would lose their successes, rather than rejoicing in them for myself?
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 thoughts of envy and comparison?
This sin stems from ingratitude for one's own blessings and letting material desires control our hearts.
Incontinence
Did you lack self-control and speak to others with language that was unfitting for family conversations?
This sin of incontinence shows a lack of self-restraint and violates the dignity of others.
Did I lack self-control and use words that offended others, showing a lack of reverence for their dignity?
This sin of incontinence shows a lack of self-restraint and violates the dignity of others.
Gluttony
Did you overindulge in eating or drinking to the point where it became an excessive pleasure, leading you away from what is reasonable and just for yourself?
This sin of gluttony demonstrates an inordinate attachment to worldly pleasures and rejects the call to temperance.
Did you overindulge in eating or drinking beyond what's reasonable, leading to excessive self-indulgence and a lack of control?
This sin of gluttony demonstrates an inordinate attachment to worldly pleasures and rejects the call to temperance.
Did you overindulge in eating or drinking beyond what's reasonable, thereby giving in to your attachment for pleasures?
This sin of gluttony demonstrates an inordinate attachment to worldly pleasures and rejects the call to temperance.
Prodigality
Have I engaged in excessive and wasteful gambling, allowing it 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.
Have I excessively risked family financial stability through excessive gambling, leading to financial burdens that compromise our ability to meet essential 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 placed excessive financial burdens on my family by engaging in wasteful gambling, compromising our stability and well-being?
This sin violates the virtue of stewardship by recklessly risking resources God has entrusted to us, while potentially harming our ability to provide for family and those in need.
Gossip
Have I taken pleasure in discussing others' faults or private affairs through conversations, messages, or social media posts, even if what I shared was true?
Gossip violates human dignity and charity by harming others' reputations for our own entertainment or pride.
Have I taken pleasure in sharing private affairs about others, even if what I shared was true?
Gossip violates human dignity and charity by harming others' reputations for our own entertainment or pride.
Have I taken pleasure in sharing others' private affairs, even if what I shared was true?
Gossip violates human dignity and charity by harming others' reputations for our own entertainment or pride.
Impiety
Did I engage in unnecessary work on a Sunday, despite having an opportunity to avoid it?
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 the Most Blessed Sacrament, especially when participating in outdoor activities or engaging in sports events?
This sin is in failing to show proper reverence demonstrates a lack of faith, respect, and proper worship due to God.
Did I fail to show reverence for Most Blessed Sacrament during quiet moments at home?
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 proper reverence for Most Blessed Sacrament in my daily life, even when engaging in enjoyable activities or spending time with loved ones?
This sin is in failing to show proper reverence demonstrates a lack of faith, respect, and proper worship due to God.
Impurity
Did I intentionally use practices, substances, or objects to prevent pregnancy?
This sin intentionally separates the unitive and procreative purposes of marriage and violates the proper use of one's sexuality.
Have you used certain practices, substances, or objects to deliberately 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 myself in a way that respects my dignity?
Wearing attire that's exceptionally revealing or indecent violates chastity and beckons sins from others.
Have I dressed in such a way that immodestly reveals my body, offending my own dignity?
Wearing attire that's exceptionally revealing or indecent violates chastity and beckons sins from others.
Have I dressed immodestly in ways that offend God's law respecting human dignity?
Wearing attire that's exceptionally revealing or indecent violates chastity and beckons sins from others.
Infidelity
Have I intentionally broken my marriage vows by being unfaithful to my spouse?
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 done something that brought physical or emotional pain to someone else, either intentionally or through my actions?
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.
Sorcery
Have I interacted with those who claim to possess supernatural knowledge through forbidden means, such as mediums, fortune tellers, tarot card readers, or others like them?
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
Have you deliberately persisted in sinful behavior, counting on God's mercy without making any effort to change your life for the better?
Presumption of God's mercy is a sin against hope because it takes His forgiveness for granted without true repentance or effort to amend one's life, showing disrespect for divine justice and mercy.
Did you deliberately persist in sinful behavior, relying on God's mercy without genuinely striving to change your ways?
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 persist in taking God's mercy for granted without making any effort to change your thoughts, words, and actions?
Presumption of God's mercy is a sin against hope because it takes His forgiveness for granted without true repentance or effort to amend one's life, showing disrespect for divine justice and mercy.
Did you procrastinate going to confession, thereby delaying your spiritual healing and demonstrating a lack of urgency in your return to 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 in a state of sin, presuming God's mercy would be available later without taking necessary steps?
Deliberately delaying confession while in mortal sin is a serious offense because it recklessly endangers your soul's salvation, shows contempt for God's mercy through the sacrament of reconciliation, and demonstrates prideful presumption that you'll have time later to repent.
Did you put off going to confession for so long that your soul was left in a state of sin, demonstrating a prideful assumption that you could rectify it on your own when you finally got around to it?
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 God's existence, either in your own thoughts or when speaking to others, through any statement or expression that denied the divinity of God?
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 private doubts or discussions, or externally through public statements or actions?
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, in any way, verbally or mentally rejected the existence of God?
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.