A Catholic Examination of Conscience

55-64 Committed Father with Adult Children

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

Updated: December 3, 2024

Read Time: 15 minutes

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Disobedience

Was I disobedient to my parents by failing to respect 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, especially when their guidance and wisdom conflicted with my own desires or expectations?

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

Did I reject the unity of the Church when frustrated with others due to their imperfections, confusing their human flaws with Christ's divine teachings?

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 become sterilized through a deliberate choice that reflects a disregard for God's plan?

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 use my words to ridicule or disrespect 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 disobeyed my mother and father by failing to show respect for their authority and guidance in matters related to my adult children?

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 ever tell fellow Catholics that they could remain separated from the Sacraments or Mass?

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

Did you lead other Catholics away from attending Mass through your words?

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

Did I ever speak in such a way that led others to feel it was acceptable to stay away from Sacraments or Mass?

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

Did I permit my child to continue in error by avoiding difficult conversations, compromising their spiritual development for the sake of my own comfort?

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

Did I neglect correcting my child's error in order to avoid having 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 fail to intervene when my child continued in error, allowing their misguided views to persist rather than speaking truth and guidance?

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 allowed the desire for social acceptance and approval from others to compromise my beliefs, leading me to conform rather than remain steadfast in what I know to be true?

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

Did I condone a funeral where a loved one's remains were scattered instead of being 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 a loved one's remains were not given a proper burial?

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

Did I permit my child to be exposed to bad influences, potentially leading them away from what is right?

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 influences that could compromise their faith?

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 influences that could lead them away from our shared values and faith?

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 blessing to another Catholic for marrying outside the Church?

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

Did you condone another Catholic to enter into a marriage that was not consecrated in the Catholic Church?

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

Did 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.

Uncharity

Do I look down upon others based on their occupation, cultural background, or other distinguishing characteristics?

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

Do I judge 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 needs, comfort, and desires over those of others in my life, potentially causing them undue burden or stress?

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 desires for leisure activities, such as gardening or playing golf, to take priority over the needs of those around me?

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

Did I let my own interests in leisurely activities, travel, and personal hobbies take precedence over showing love and charity to others?

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

Do you think, say, or act towards 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 I lose my patience when interacting with others, allowing irritation to get the better of me?

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 you lose your patience with those closest to you, such as family members or friends?

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 you allow someone else to be unjustly treated?

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

Did I permit someone else to be treated unfairly in my community, workplace, or social circles?

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 injustice to be done to someone?

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, especially during times of crisis or hardship?

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

Have I shown compassion and practical assistance to those in my life who are struggling, such as friends and acquaintances facing health challenges or financial 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 social circle, such as friends from work or community groups, who are struggling financially or experiencing personal hardship?

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

Lukewarmness

Am I uninterested in growing deeper in my faith, settling for mediocrity rather than seeking a transformative relationship with 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.

Callousness

Did I fail to help someone who was suffering when I had the means to do so? (In the context of this demographic, consider the financial situation, lifestyle activities such as traveling, trying new restaurants and cuisines, watching documentaries or historical dramas on TV, and leisurely hobbies like gardening or reading, which could expose them to various forms of human distress or need.)

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

Did you turn away from someone in your community who was suffering?

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 neglect those who were ill and needed my assistance?

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

Did I neglect those in my community who needed assistance from me?

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

Did I turn away from those who were in need of my assistance, especially during times when they required extra help?

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

Have I neglected to engage my child in discussions about their faith, potentially hindering their 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 share my faith with my child when given opportunities?

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 desires for leisurely activities ahead of my responsibilities to support and engage with my family in meaningful ways?

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 those of my loved ones in our family's decision-making processes?

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 those of my loved ones, particularly in regards to planning for their future needs or 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.

Did I intentionally fail to prioritize my daily conversation with God?

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

Did you deliberately deprioritize and skip attending Mass on a Sunday or Holy Day of Obligation, giving precedence to personal interests or worldly commitments?

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 prioritize personal leisure activities, such as hobbies or sports, over your obligation to attend Mass on a Sunday or Holy Day of Obligation?

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

Vainglory

Did I seek praise from others for my charitable giving, especially when done in front of acquaintances or social media?

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 give alms to receive social recognition?

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 social circles 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 among acquaintances than pleasing God?

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

Am I more focused on impressing others through my accomplishments, hobbies, or interests than pleasing God?

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

Did you publicly distance yourself from your faith when faced with social pressure, criticism, or ridicule?

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

Theft

Did I intentionally fail to pay debts owed to others?

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

Did you intentionally fail to pay debts owed to others?

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

Did I intentionally fail to pay my financial commitments that I have made 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 assist others in acquiring something that did not belong to them?

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

Have I, regardless of its value, stolen anything that does not belong to me?

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

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

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

Did I fail to pay others a fair price, depriving them of their rightful compensation?

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

Did I avoid paying others a fair price or wage through my business dealings, investments, or financial transactions?

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 withhold fair compensation or remuneration to someone in my professional dealings?

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

False Witness

Did you misrepresent yourself to gain an advantage by presenting false information in your personal, social, or professional life?

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

Did I misrepresent myself to gain an advantage, thereby giving false witness through my words?

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

Did you speak maliciously against another?

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 any deliberate misrepresentation of the truth in our personal or professional dealings?

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 exaggerated, misrepresented the truth, or lied about others in conversations, discussions, or testimonies?

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 formal or informal conversations among friends, colleagues, or community members?

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

Have I intentionally misrepresented others through my words, perhaps in conversations with friends, family members, or colleagues?

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

Resent

Have I become sterilized?

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

Did I harbor any resentment towards those who have wronged me in my thoughts, perhaps silently nursing grievances against 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 nurture any grudge in my heart towards those who have wronged me?

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

Did I deny forgiveness to someone who wronged me through words, refusing to pardon them even when they sought my mercy?

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

Did I refuse to pardon someone who did me wrong in our conversation?

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

Did you deny someone forgiveness for an offense they committed against you?

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

Did I, at any point in my life, deliberately reject or abandon my Catholic faith for an extended period?

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

Did I deliberately reject my Catholic faith for any length of time, perhaps through prolonged absence from Mass or sacraments?

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 share my faith in Jesus Christ and speak about His teachings to 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 compromise my beliefs to gain others' approval rather than upholding what I know to be true, particularly in situations where conforming to societal expectations or peer pressure is involved?

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

Did I compromise my beliefs to maintain others' approval 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 you remain silent about Church teachings to avoid discomfort among your close relationships, friends from work or community groups, and adult children?

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

Imprudence

Have I spent excessive time on leisurely pursuits that distract me from my spiritual growth and service to others?

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

Have I spent excessive time on leisurely pursuits that hinder my spiritual growth and service to others?

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

Scandal

Did I try to lead someone else into committing a sinful act through my words, actions, or influence in their life?

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

Did I try to make someone else commit a sinful act through my own words or actions, such as encouraging them to engage in something that could potentially lead them away from God?

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 own wrongdoing, thereby clinging to it?

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

Have I refused to acknowledge my wrongdoing, stubbornly holding onto guilt rather than seeking forgiveness?

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

Sensuality

Did you use controlled substances to dull your senses and avoid dealing with life's challenges?

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

Did you intentionally misuse controlled substances to escape into a false sense of tranquility rather than facing life's difficulties with 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 my own desires and pleasures over cultivating a deeper intimacy and connection with God in your daily life?

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 prioritize my own desires for leisurely activities and pleasures over time spent in prayer and devotion to God?

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

Do I allow my desire for leisurely hobbies, travel, and indulgences to take precedence over my relationship with God?

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

Blasphemy

Did I use God's name in vain, swearing an oath to Him?

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

Did I receive Holy Communion while aware that my conscience was troubled by unconfessed serious sins?

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

Did I receive Holy Communion in my own state, unaware of any spiritual impediment?

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

Did I receive Holy Communion without being properly disposed, knowing that I had not made an effort to reconcile with God or amend my life in some way?

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

Did I use the name of God carelessly 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.

Have you spoken the name of Jesus or God in a careless, flippant, or dismissive manner?

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, particularly in situations where I had authority or influence over them?

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

Did my pursuit of success in various roles, particularly those involving management and leadership, allow my desire for power and control to influence my decisions and treatment of 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 your pursuit of success in your career and personal life allow you to let your desire for power and dominance influence your decisions, especially when interacting with those in positions below yours?

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 the accumulation of money and possessions my driving force in life, to the point where it distracts me from trusting God's providence?

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

Did I make accumulation of possessions a driving force in my life, leading me to trust in material wealth rather than God's providence?

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

Oppression

Did you engage in any behavior, whether in your personal or professional life, that could be perceived as mistreating others?

It's a sin to execute an unjust and cruel exercise of power or authority over others instead of respecting the God-given dignity of every human person.

Lust

Did I see others solely in terms of their usefulness to me, rather than respecting their inherent dignity and worth?

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

Did I view others in terms of their usefulness to me, rather than seeing them as full and equal 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 I view others primarily through the lens of what they could offer me, rather than seeing their inherent dignity and worth?

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

Have I had actual or simulated sexual acts outside of marriage, inspired by 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 that give rise to lustful intentions, especially through visual stimulation such as explicit images, videos, or situations, outside of a valid marriage?

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

Autonomy

Did I attribute my good fortune in life, such as stability in career and relationships, solely to my own merits and efforts, forgetting to acknowledge God's providence?

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

Did I harbor suspicions about God's existence that went unchecked?

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 allow yourself to entertain thoughts that questioned 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 trust solely in my own abilities, failing to acknowledge God's grace as the source of strength in all that I undertake?

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 to navigate life's challenges, rather than humbly seeking God's guidance and support?

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

Envy

Have I felt envious of others' good fortune, such that I begrudged them their blessings?

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 felt envious towards others' successes and secretly wished they would lose their advantages?

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 resented others' successes and secretly hoped they would lose their advantages?

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?

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

Incontinence

Did I lack self-control and speak to others with vulgar language, thereby violating their dignity through my words?

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

Did I lack self-control and speak to others with vulgarity, thus showing a lack of respect for their dignity through my words?

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

Did you lack self-control and use language that was degrading to others in conversations with friends, family, or colleagues?

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

Gluttony

Did you overindulge in eating or drinking beyond what is reasonable, demonstrating an excessive attachment to worldly pleasures and neglecting the virtue of temperance?

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

Have I overindulged in eating or drinking beyond what's reasonable, demonstrating an excessive attachment to worldly pleasures that rejects the call to temperance?

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

Did I overindulge in eating or drinking on any occasion when it was contrary to what would be considered reasonable by God?

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

Prodigality

Have I prioritized excessive and wasteful entertainment expenses over my financial obligations or family needs, recklessly risking resources God has entrusted to me?

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 indulged in activities that jeopardize my financial stability, prioritizing leisure over family needs and 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 through conversations at social gatherings, community events, or online forums, 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 was shared was true, through conversations or discussions with acquaintances or friends?

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

Have I taken pleasure in sharing others' personal stories or issues, 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 indulge in unnecessary work-related activities on a Sunday, contrary to its sacred character?

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 always show reverence for Most Blessed Sacrament in quiet moments of solitude, such as during daily devotions or meditation?

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

Did you fail to always show reverence for the Most Blessed Sacrament in those quiet moments when you are alone with your thoughts?

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

Impurity

Did I use certain practices to prevent pregnancy?

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

Have I dressed in a way that immodestly reveals my body, violating chastity?

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

Have I dressed in attire that is immodestly revealing, thereby violating chastity and inviting lustful thoughts from others?

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

Infidelity

Did I break my marriage vows by engaging in any physical or emotional infidelity with someone other than 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.

Have I broken my marriage vows by being unfaithful in my words, actions, or thoughts to my partner?

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.

Have I entertained inappropriate feelings towards someone else's spouse, particularly in situations where we are alone together or engaged in private conversations?

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.

Did you publicly distance yourself from your faith, particularly when faced with social pressure or discomfort among friends, family, 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.

Fornication

Did you engage in non-procreative sex?

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

Did I have any non-procreative sex outside of my committed, sacramental marriage?

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

Did I engage in non-procreative sex while unmarried?

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

Violence

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

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

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

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

Adultery

Have I entertained inappropriately directed 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 you interacted with mediums, fortune tellers, tarot card readers, or Ouija boards through digital media consumption, online searches, or in-person experiences?

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

Have you interacted with mediums, fortune tellers, tarot card readers, or Ouija boards through conversations, books, online content, or any other means of words that promoted their use?

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

Did I interact with those who claim to possess supernatural knowledge or powers, such as psychics, clairvoyants, or individuals who use tarot cards, crystals, or other forms of divination?

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

Presumption

Did you deliberately persist in sinful behavior, counting on God's mercy without making any effort to change your daily habits or routines?

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, trusting God's mercy would suffice without making any genuine effort 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 deliberately persist in taking God's mercy for granted, without making any effort to change your life and priorities, especially when faced with new challenges or opportunities?

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

Did you put off going to confession while aware that you were in a state of sin, relying on God's mercy being available at some later time?

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, thinking you would have more time later to make amends?

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

Apostasy

Have you explicitly rejected the existence of God, either internally to yourself or in discussions with others?

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

Have you explicitly rejected the existence of God, either internally or to others, through your online activities, discussions, or writings?

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

Have you explicitly rejected the existence of God through your online interactions, discussions with friends or acquaintances, or reading materials that promote atheistic ideologies?

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.