A Catholic Examination of Conscience

45-54 Married Man

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

Updated: December 3, 2024

Read Time: 16 minutes

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Disobedience

Was I disobedient to my parents in carrying out their legitimate requests?

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 any deliberate disregard for their legitimate authority in our daily interactions?

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 by harboring frustration towards its members, even when their human imperfections led to difficulties in maintaining a sense of community?

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

Did I reject the unity of the Church when feeling frustrated with others within?

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

Did I reject the unity of the Church when frustrated with the imperfections of its members, even if my intention was to express discontent rather than division?

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 intentionally skip fasting on days specifically designated for self-denial and penance, thereby showing disrespect to your spiritual obligations?

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 speak disrespectfully about the Church, its teachings, or its members?

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 failed to show the respect and reverence due to my mother?

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

Have I disobeyed my mother and father through any actions or attitudes that showed disrespect for their authority?

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 failed to show my mother and father the honor due them through my words, actions, and attitudes?

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

Condoning

Did I lead other Catholics away from participating in Sacraments or Mass through my words?

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

Did I lead fellow Catholics astray from participating in sacraments 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 discourage other practicing Catholics from receiving Sacraments 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 permit my child to persist in error by failing to address their mistakes, perhaps because of my own discomfort or reluctance to have an uncomfortable conversation?

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

Did I permit others to continue in error by avoiding conversations that could have guided them towards a more virtuous path?

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 allow the desire for human acceptance to influence my decisions, compromising my values rather than standing firm in what I know is right?

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

Did I condone a funeral where human remains were not properly buried?

Failing to advocate for proper burial of human remains is considered sinful as the Church teaches that the body is sacred and deserves reverent burial, with scattering or keeping remains being contrary to the dignity of the human body and resurrection belief.

Did I condone a funeral where human remains were not properly buried?

Failing to advocate for proper burial of human remains is considered sinful as the Church teaches that the body is sacred and deserves reverent burial, with scattering or keeping remains being contrary to the dignity of the human body and resurrection belief.

Did I permit my child to be exposed to bad influences?

Parents have to protect their children's well-being, guarding them from harmful elements that could damage their faith or lead them into sin.

Did I permit my child to be exposed to bad influences?

Parents have to protect their children's well-being, guarding them from harmful elements that could damage their faith or lead them into sin.

Did I permit my child to be exposed to harmful influences?

Parents have to protect their children's well-being, guarding them from harmful elements that could damage their faith or lead them into sin.

Did I give approval for another Catholic to be married outside the Church?

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

Did I give my approval to another Catholic when they decided to marry outside the Church, even if it was their own decision?

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

Did I ever give my approval or failed to advise against another Catholic getting married outside of our Church, potentially leading them astray from what is right?

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

Did you, through your words, endorse or justify abortion or euthanasia?

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

Did I publicly endorse or justify abortion or euthanasia in my words or actions?

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

Uncharity

Do I turn away from those who are living on the streets and in shelters?

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 characteristic when engaging in discussions or social interactions?

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 think less of 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 allow my personal interests to take precedence over meeting 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.

Did I allow my own interests to take precedence over the needs and well-being 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.

Did I allow my interests to overshadow those of others in my decisions?

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

Have I lost my patience with those around me, such as family members, friends, or coworkers, when they have been struggling or frustrating to deal with?

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 someone when our plans or conversations were not going as smoothly as I had hoped?

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 else to be treated unfairly in my personal, social, or professional life?

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

Did I permit someone to be treated unfairly through my deeds?

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

Did I permit someone to be treated unfairly, such as witnessing a colleague being denied fair treatment at work or seeing a friend receive unjust compensation for their services?

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

Have I shown compassion and practical assistance to those in need, particularly during times of unexpected financial hardship or personal struggle?

Failing to help those in need violates Christ's direct command to love our neighbor and care for the poor, effectively refusing to recognize Jesus Himself in the suffering of others.

Have I shown compassion and practical assistance to those in my community, such as fellow hikers or volunteers at local charities, who are struggling with physical or financial needs.

Failing to help those in need violates Christ's direct command to love our neighbor and care for the poor, effectively refusing to recognize Jesus Himself in the suffering of others.

Have I demonstrated compassion and practical assistance to those in my community, such as neighbors, coworkers, or acquaintances who are struggling or in need?

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 satisfied with merely existing in my faith, rather than striving to deepen it?

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

Am I unwilling to deepen my understanding of the Catholic faith, despite feeling comfortable in my current spiritual state?

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

Have I been unmotivated or halfhearted in my commitment to loving and serving God, perhaps neglecting prayer and devotions while prioritizing worldly pursuits and leisure activities?

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

Have I been unmotivated or halfhearted in my efforts to cultivate a deeper love for God, prioritizing worldly pursuits over spiritual growth?

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

Sloth

Did I show indifference to those who needed my help by turning away from them?

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

Did I permit my spouse to continue in ignorance, prioritizing avoiding difficult conversations over fostering spiritual growth and maturity?

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 neglected to prioritize my child's spiritual well-being, failing to guide them toward knowing 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 provide spiritual guidance to my child by neglecting their need for a deeper understanding of 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 cultivate in my own heart, through prayer, reading scripture, and meditation on God's word, a deepening knowledge of Christ that could have inspired me to guide others towards Him?

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 spouse'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 spouse'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 spouse's genuine needs and well-being, potentially neglecting our shared responsibilities and duties towards each other?

Neglecting family duties is considered sinful because it violates both divine law and natural law, where God entrusts us with specific responsibilities to nurture, protect, and care for our family members as part of our fundamental Christian vocation.

Did I fail to instruct my own children in their religious duties?

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 spiritual guidance or instruction to my own child?

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

Did I neglect to pray daily, failing to prioritize my spiritual life amidst my busy schedule?

This is a sin because daily prayer is our essential lifeline of communication with God - deliberately neglecting it demonstrates ingratitude to our Creator, breaks our fundamental relationship with Him, and violates the First Commandment's call to properly worship God

Did you neglect to make daily prayer a priority in your busy schedule?

This is a sin because daily prayer is our essential lifeline of communication with God - deliberately neglecting it demonstrates ingratitude to our Creator, breaks our fundamental relationship with Him, and violates the First Commandment's call to properly worship God

Did I neglect to communicate with God through daily prayer?

This is a sin because daily prayer is our essential lifeline of communication with God - deliberately neglecting it demonstrates ingratitude to our Creator, breaks our fundamental relationship with Him, and violates the First Commandment's call to properly worship God

Did I deprioritize my obligation to attend 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 you deliberately choose to skip Mass on a Sunday or Holy Day of Obligation, allowing worldly priorities to take precedence over your 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 I deprioritize and skip Sunday Mass, allowing worldly priorities to take precedence over my highest obligation to worship God?

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

Vainglory

Did I give alms in order to impress others with my generosity?

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 personal acclaim from others for my charitable donations?

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 in front of 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 defending my reputation and seeking admiration from others than pleasing God through my actions?

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

Did you publicly distance yourself from your faith when faced with social pressure or discomfort by downplaying its importance in conversations?

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

Theft

Did I intentionally fail to pay my debts?

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

Did you intentionally fail to pay your debts, thereby neglecting to honor 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 I intentionally neglect paying debts that were due to others?

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

Did you help others steal something from them?

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

Did I assist others in stealing? (While not engaging myself in theft, this sin still participates in breaking the seventh commandment and shows disregard for others' rightful property and dignity.)

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's through indirect means or encouraging someone else to engage in theft.

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

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

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

Have I willfully taken for myself 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, depriving them of their rightful earnings?

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 fail to pay others a fair price or wage in my business 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.

Did you avoid paying others a fair price for goods and services in your business 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

Have I used words to misrepresent myself in order to gain an advantage?

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

Did you use words to misrepresent yourself and gain an advantage over others?

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

Did I maliciously speak untruths about another through my words?

Slander deliberately damages another person's reputation through false statements, violating both the Eighth Commandment against bearing false witness and Christ's command to love our neighbor.

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 you deceive others through dishonest words, actions, or any other means?

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 you intentionally mislead others through your 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 situations, such as online posts, conversations, or interactions that may have been witnessed by colleagues, friends, or acquaintances?

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 my personal or professional relationships, including those related to business ventures, social media interactions, or casual conversations?

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

Have I deliberately exaggerated, misrepresented others through my words in formal or informal conversations and interactions?

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

Resent

Did you become sterilized through medical intervention, which would be an act of defiance against 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.

Did I harbor any resentment towards those who have wronged me, including in my thoughts or conversations about them?

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

Did I harbor any resentment towards those who have wronged me, especially in situations where others might expect me to feel a strong emotional response?

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

Did I harbor any resentment towards people who have wronged me in ways that have affected our shared interests, hobbies, or personal relationships?

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 fail to offer forgiveness to someone who wronged me through my words, leading them to feel unloved or unheard?

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 deliberately rejected God's revealed truth for any length of time, perhaps during periods of spiritual complacency or uncertainty?

This sin represents a deliberate rejection of God's revealed truth and the covenant relationship established through baptism, breaking the promise to remain faithful to Christ and His Church.

Effeminacy

Do I fear to speak the name of Jesus in everyday conversations, proclaiming his message to those around 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 I fear to speak up for Jesus and share His message 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."

Do I avoid mentioning Jesus' name in conversation, fearing that others might think me foolish for doing so?

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 avoid social discomfort 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 remain silent about Church teachings when it would have been difficult to uphold them, in order to avoid discomfort or conflict?

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

Retaliation

Do I harbor thoughts of retaliation in my heart?

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

Do I allow thoughts of retaliation against others to harbor in my mind?

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

Did I allow myself to be entertained by thoughts of pornography?

Interacting with pornography reduces human beings to mere objects for personal gratification, violating their inherent dignity and worth as children of God.

Did I intentionally access, view, or consume any form of pornography?

Interacting with pornography reduces human beings to mere objects for personal gratification, violating their inherent dignity and worth as children of God.

Did I view others primarily in terms of their usefulness to me, 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,

Imprudence

Have I spent excessive time on meaningless distractions in my leisure activities?

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

Sensuality

Did I desire worldly pleasures and experiences over growth in faith, and did this prioritize my temporal desires 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 desire worldly pleasures over growth in faith, especially through excessive engagement in leisure activities that distract me from prayer and spiritual development?

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.

Do I put my own desires for pleasure and entertainment above my relationship with God?

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

Do I allow desires for physical pleasure to distract me from my relationship with God?

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

Do I give precedence to personal enjoyment over my relationship with God, particularly when it comes to indulging in activities that bring me temporary pleasure?

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.

Murder

Have I murdered anyone?

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

Did I participate in the intentional taking of another's life, such as through assisting with euthanasia or actively promoting abortion?

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.

Have I, through my thoughts, words, or actions, participated in an abortion?

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

Scandal

Did I intentionally lead someone else to commit a sinful act by 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 I try to make someone else engage in sinful behavior through my own 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.

Did you encourage someone to engage in an activity that could be considered sinful?

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

Impenitence

Have I refused to admit my wrongdoing, clinging to a particular sin?

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

Have I refused to let go of a particular wrongdoing, even after being aware of its sinful nature?

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

Have I refused to admit my wrongdoing, stubbornly clinging to sin despite 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 frustration or anger, using His holy name as an expletive, while engaging in intense conversations or competitive activities that got heated?

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

Did I receive Holy Communion while knowingly in a state of mortal sin?

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

Did I use God's name as a curse or byword in conversation, especially when speaking with friends, family, or colleagues who may be familiar with me?

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 to express anger, frustration, or annoyance 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.

Ambition

Did I allow my desire for power and dominance to influence my decisions, especially in leadership roles, where I was supposed to serve others?

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

Did you allow your pursuit of success and advancement in your career to be influenced by a desire for power and control over others?

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

Did I let my desire for power and dominance influence how I treated others in personal and professional settings?

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

Greed

Have I made accumulation of possessions a driving force in my life?

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

Did I make my accumulation of money and possessions a driving force in my life, potentially leading me to prioritize material wealth over what truly matters?

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.

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 your blessings in life, forgetting to acknowledge their source as 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 your accomplishments, 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 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 you entertain doubts about God's existence in your thoughts?

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

Did you entertain doubts about God's existence through your thoughts, reflections, or introspections?

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 trust solely in my own abilities to succeed, failing to acknowledge 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 abilities, neglecting to humbly acknowledge God's presence 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 attempt to solve problems in my own strength, without seeking God's guidance and assistance?

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 had feelings of discontent when others achieve success, and secretly wished they would lose their accomplishments?

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, perhaps even envying those who possess luxuries or enjoy finer things in life?

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

Incontinence

Did I lack self-control when speaking to others in social settings, using language that was unworthy of my dignity or theirs?

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

Did I lack self-control in speaking to others using language that was unbecoming of a Christian, causing them harm or offending their dignity?

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

Did you lack self-control and speak to others using language that was impolite or unbecoming in social settings?

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

Gluttony

Did you overindulge in eating or drinking, possibly during social gatherings, meals with friends, or at home, beyond what is reasonable for your physical needs?

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

Did I allow excess in eating and drinking to become a habit, leading me away from moderation?

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

Prodigality

Have I excessively risked my financial resources, compromising my ability to meet my family's needs and long-term obligations?

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

Have I excessively prioritized recreational spending over meeting my financial responsibilities?

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

Gossip

Have I taken pleasure in discussing others' faults or private affairs, even if what I shared was true, through conversations at work or with friends and acquaintances?

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

Have I taken pleasure in discussing others' faults or private affairs, even if what I shared was true, and especially when engaging in conversations with close friends or colleagues?

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

Have I taken pleasure in discussing others' faults or private affairs, even if what I shared was true, through conversations at social gatherings or online forums?

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

Impiety

Have I used my time and resources on a Sunday, even when it was unnecessary to do so?

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 in various settings, such as at church or while watching Eucharistic processions?

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 always show reverence for the Most Blessed Sacrament in my daily devotions and personal moments of prayer?

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

Did I fail to show reverence for Most Blessed Sacrament on holy days or other special occasions when I was able to attend Mass?

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

Impurity

Have I used 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.

Did I use practices or substances to prevent pregnancy?

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

Did I deliberately prevent pregnancy through certain practices, substances, or objects in my marital relationship?

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

Have I dressed immodestly in ways that compromise my dignity and self-respect?

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

Have I dressed immodestly in ways that displease God?

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

Infidelity

Have I broken my marriage vows by intentionally neglecting my commitment to fidelity in our relationship?

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.

Did I break my marriage vows by being unfaithful to my spouse through deeds?

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

Fornication

Did I have any non-procreative sex outside of my 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-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 you have non-procreative, unmarried sex?

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

Have I entertained inappropriate feelings toward someone else's spouse in my daily life, social relationships, or interactions within my community?

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.

Violence

Have I knowingly brought pain or suffering to someone else through my actions, regardless of whether it was intentional or thoughtless?

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

Have I knowingly acted in ways that caused emotional harm to someone through my words, actions, or behavior?

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

Sorcery

Did I engage in conversations, interactions, or dealings with mediums, fortune tellers, tarot card readers, or Ouija boards?

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

Have I sought guidance through mediums, fortune tellers, tarot card readers, or Ouija boards?

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

Did I seek guidance, wisdom, or answers from mediums, fortune tellers, tarot card readers, or Ouija boards?

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

Presumption

Did you deliberately persist in sinful behavior, assuming God's mercy would cover your lack of effort to change, without truly seeking His forgiveness or making a genuine attempt to reform your 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 deliberately count on God's mercy without making any effort to change, even when engaging in behaviors that are contrary to what you know is right for your personal life and relationships?

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, counting on God's mercy without making any effort to change your habits or behaviors in response to challenges, difficulties, or stress?

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 while in a state of sin, showing presumption that your spiritual well-being would be better served by putting it off until 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 delay going to confession while in a state of sin, prioritizing other commitments over the need for spiritual guidance and forgiveness?

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 procrastinate going to confession while in a state of sin, recklessly putting your soul's salvation at risk by neglecting to seek God's mercy through the sacrament of reconciliation?

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, either through your thoughts or words, by denying His existence?

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

Have you explicitly rejected the existence of God in your thoughts?

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.