Examination for a Senior, Committed Father with Adult Children

Disobedience

Was I disobedient to my parents in matters concerning the family's well-being, plans, or decisions?

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

Was I disobedient to my parents in my actions towards them?

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

Were you disobedient to your parents by failing to follow their guidance or instructions, especially in matters concerning your children or family life?

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 my experiences within the 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."

Have you rejected the unity of the Church by harboring negative thoughts towards its members due to their imperfections?

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

Did you deliberately skip a fast on obligatory days, such as Ash Wednesday?

This is considered sinful because deliberately disregarding prescribed days of fasting represents disobedience to Church authority and fails to honor our spiritual obligation to practice self-denial and penance during sacred times.

Did I mock the Church? In this context, mocking the Church refers to using words that show contempt for Christ's established institution on earth, disrespecting the Body of Christ, and undermining the Church's divine authority as guided by the Holy Spirit.

Mocking the church shows contempt for Christ's established institution on earth, disrespects the Body of Christ, and undermines the Church's divine authority as guided by the Holy Spirit.

Did I verbally disparage the Church?

Mocking the church shows contempt for Christ's established institution on earth, disrespects the Body of Christ, and undermines the Church's divine authority as guided by the Holy Spirit.

Have I, through my actions and attitudes towards my mother and father, shown disrespect and dishonored them?

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

Have I dishonored my mother through my actions in showing disrespect to her values and wisdom, especially when it relates to guidance on matters such as family decision-making or managing life's significant milestones?

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

Have I, through my actions and attitudes towards my mother and father, disobeyed the command to honor them?

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

Condoning

Have I, through my words, ever encouraged or condoned other Catholics from staying 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 encourage fellow Catholics 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 through my words encourage fellow Catholics to persist in missing 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 neglect guiding my child to continue in error, thereby avoiding an uncomfortable conversation about their life choices?

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 my child to persist in error by failing to address it, perhaps out of fear of confrontation?

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

Did I condone a funeral where a loved one's remains were not properly respected and laid to rest?

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 given a reverent 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 you condone a funeral service where human remains were not given proper burial?

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

Did I 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 in our daily life together?

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 grandchild 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 condone another Catholic to marry outside the Church through my words?

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

Did I condone another Catholic to enter into marriage outside the Church through my words?

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

Did I condone another Catholic to marry in a non-sacramental ceremony?

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

Uncharity

Do I turn away from those who are temporarily homeless?

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

Do I turn away from those who are homeless?

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

Do I turn away from strangers and those who are homeless, failing to provide them with comfort and hospitality?

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

Do I look down upon others based on their job, nationality, or other trait that may be unfamiliar to me?

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 down upon others based on their job, nationality, or other trait?

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

Do I 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 you prioritize your own interests over the needs of those in your life, such as family members or friends?

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

Did I prioritize my own interests over those of my family, friends, and community?

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 of those in my community?

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 judge others harshly in your thoughts, without considering their inherent 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.

Do I speak to others with disrespect, failing to show them the love and respect that is their due 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 with others when interacting with them in daily conversations?

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

Did I permit someone to be treated unfairly?

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

Did you permit another person to be treated unfairly?

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, whether in my own household, among friends, or through my actions within our community?

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 been careless in serving those who truly needed assistance?

Refusing to help those in need violates Jesus's direct command to love our neighbor and practice the works of mercy, as illustrated in the parable of the Good Samaritan.

Have I not helped others when they needed help, particularly in situations where my time, resources, or expertise could have made a meaningful difference?

Refusing to help those in need violates Jesus's direct command to love our neighbor and practice the works of mercy, as illustrated in the parable of the Good Samaritan.

Have I failed to assist those who were in genuine need of assistance?

Refusing to help those in need violates Jesus's direct command to love our neighbor and practice the works of mercy, as illustrated in the parable of the Good Samaritan.

Have I shown compassion and practical assistance to those in need, particularly in moments when they may be facing financial hardship or struggling with health-related challenges?

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

Have I shown compassion and practical assistance to those in need, particularly through deeds that demonstrate my willingness to be present for others in a meaningful way?

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

Have I shown compassion and practical assistance to those in need, particularly through my involvement in community events and volunteering, which demonstrates my love for neighbor and care for the poor?

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 complacent in my faith, taking comfort in routine and familiarity rather than seeking transformative growth?

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 by prioritizing worldly pursuits or leisure activities over spiritual growth and development?

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

Merciless

Have I spoken harshly or critically of others, thereby condemning them in my words?

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

Callousness

Did I fail to help someone in need when they were suffering, despite having the means to do so?

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

Did I use harsh words towards someone who had wronged me, causing them to feel unheard and unloved?

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 turn away from caring for someone who was ill, treating them with indifference and neglecting their physical and emotional needs?

This is sinful because it violates Jesus's direct command to care for the sick (Matthew 25:36) and fails to fulfill our fundamental Christian duty to show compassion and mercy to those who are suffering.

Did you turn away from offering comfort to someone who was ill in your community?

This is sinful because it violates Jesus's direct command to care for the sick (Matthew 25:36) and fails to fulfill our fundamental Christian duty to show compassion and mercy to those who are suffering.

Sloth

Did I turn away from those who were genuinely in need of my assistance?

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

Did you skip prescribed days of prayer and penance, such as Ash Wednesday?

This is considered sinful because deliberately disregarding prescribed days of fasting represents disobedience to Church authority and fails to honor our spiritual obligation to practice self-denial and penance during sacred times.

Have I failed to introduce my child to Christ in our conversations, moments of prayer together, or through sharing stories about Jesus?

Parents have the duty to be the first teachers of faith to their children, as promised in their child's baptism and outlined in Church teaching as the fundamental responsibility of Christian parenthood.

In what ways have I put my own interests ahead of my family's genuine needs and wellbeing?

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

In what ways have I put my own interests ahead of my family's genuine needs and wellbeing, neglecting my responsibilities to nurture, protect, and care for them?

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 desires for relaxation and leisure ahead of genuine needs and well-being in my relationships, particularly those with my family?

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

Did you neglect your child's religious education, failing to provide them with essential teachings and values that would guide their spiritual growth?

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 my adult child(ren) with opportunities for spiritual growth through guidance, support, and example in our daily interactions?

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

Did I neglect to pray daily?

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

Did I neglect to pray daily, perhaps during moments of quiet reflection or stillness in my life?

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 and skip attending to my duties towards God, such as prayer or spiritual activities on Sundays or Holy Days 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 self-aggrandizement when giving alms?

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

Did I seek praise 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 the eyes of others, rather 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 friends, family, and 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.

Did you publicly distance yourself from your Catholic faith when faced with social pressure or discomfort among friends, family, or community members?

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

Did you publicly deny being Catholic when faced with social pressure or discomfort among friends, family, or community members?

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

Did you publicly distance yourself from Catholic teaching when faced with social pressure, compromising your fidelity to God?

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 owed to others?

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

Did I intentionally fail to pay debts 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 back debts owed to others?

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

Did you help others steal?

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

Did you knowingly help others steal?

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

Did you help others steal something from 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 stolen anything that doesn't belong to me, regardless of its value?

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

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

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

Have I, regardless of its value, stolen anything that doesn't 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.

Did I avoid paying others a fair price, potentially harming them financially through deceitful deeds?

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

Did I avoid paying others a fair price or wage? Consider this: Have I ever intentionally charged someone more than what is reasonable for my own gain, such as selling items that are not worth the amount I'm asking for?

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 take unfair advantage of others by paying them less than what was due?

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

False Witness

Did I deceive others by misrepresenting 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 intentionally misrepresent yourself to gain an advantage, deceiving others through your words?

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

Did I misrepresent myself to gain an advantage, particularly in conversations about family history, legacy, or personal accomplishments?

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 false words against another person?

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 led others to believe something that is not true?

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 misled others by my words?

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 caused others to believe something untrue through my 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 that could damage their reputation or relationships?

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, particularly in conversations about shared interests, activities, or family events?

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 social situations related to my hobbies, family gatherings, or community events?

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

Resent

Did I become sterilized?

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

Have you become sterilized?

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

Did I become intentionally sterile?

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

Did you harbor any resentment in your heart towards others who have wronged you?

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 against those who have wronged me in my relationships, family life, or past experiences?

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 in my heart towards those who have wronged me, such as family members or individuals from my past?

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

Did you deny forgiveness to someone who wronged you in word, thought, or deed?

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 grant pardon to someone who had wronged me?

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, through my thoughts, willfully reject God's revealed truth for any length of time?

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

Have you deliberately rejected your Catholic faith, for any length of time, through thought?

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

Effeminacy

Do I fear to say the name of Jesus, especially in casual conversations with friends and acquaintances?

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

Do you fear to share the message of Jesus, even among friends and family who may resist or reject it?

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 rather than upholding what I know to be right, perhaps in pursuit of social approval or conformity within a community?

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 gain others' approval rather than upholding what I know to be right in pursuit of personal fulfillment and relaxation in retirement?

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, especially in situations where they conflict with societal norms or cultural expectations, to avoid discomfort or controversy?

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

Worldliness

Do I become overly attached to my possessions, using them as a means to derive comfort, security, or identity?

From a Catholic perspective, obsessing over possessions is considered sinful because it makes material things an idol that takes precedence over God and prevents spiritual growth while hindering one's ability to be generous and detached from worldly goods.

Lust

Did you intentionally look at 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 recognizing 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 reduce others to their usefulness or what they could do for me, rather than seeing them as human beings created in God's image?

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

Have I had actual or simulated sexual acts outside of marriage, including those that involve sensual touching, kissing, or other forms of intimacy?

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 acts that stirred lust outside of 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.

Have I had actual or simulated acts of lust outside of marriage, especially in situations where I've used my imagination or engaged in flirtatious behavior?

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

Imprudence

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

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

Have I spent excessive time on meaningless distractions, perhaps in the form of excessive entertainment or idle pursuits that prevent me from cultivating a deeper relationship with God?

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

Vanity

Did you obsess over your physical appearance, taking excessive interest in how you look to others?

Excessive focus on physical appearance reflects vanity and can indicate a lack of trust in God's creation of you as inherently worthy.

Sensuality

Did I desire worldly experiences over spiritual growth in my life?

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

Did I desire travel experiences, hobbies, or entertainment over spiritual growth?

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 remain silent about Church teachings when I knew my words could have brought social discomfort or conflict, out of a desire to avoid these difficulties?

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

Have you used controlled substances to detach from reality?

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

Have you used controlled substances to detach from reality?

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

Did you use controlled substances to intentionally escape from your problems?

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

Do I prioritize my own desires for pleasure over my relationship with God, often turning fleeting comforts into idols in my 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 allow my desires for comfort, relaxation, and leisure activities to take precedence over my relationship with God?

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

Do I allow my desire for sensual pleasure 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.

Did I engage in masturbation?

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

Murder

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.

Have you endorsed or justified 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.

Scandal

Did I lead someone else to commit a sinful act through my own 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.

Impenitence

Have I held onto a particular sin, refusing to acknowledge my wrongdoing?

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

Have I refused to acknowledge my wrongdoing, clinging to pride rather than accepting God's mercy?

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

Blasphemy

Did you swear at God?

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

Did you "swear to God" in conversation, perhaps jokingly or out of frustration?

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

Did you swear to God in a moment of anger, frustration, or stress?

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 grave sin, showing disrespect for the sacrament?

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

Did I receive Holy Communion while knowing myself unworthy to partake in it?

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 commit sacrilege by receiving Holy Communion while knowingly in a state of serious 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 speak the name of God as a profanity or oath?

This is sinful as using God's holy name carelessly or disrespectfully shows contempt for His divine nature and fails to give proper honor to the sacred name of God, which should only be used in prayer, worship, or respectful discussion.

Did you use the name of Jesus, God, or any divine being as an oath, curse, or casual expression 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 used the sacred name of God, Jesus Christ, or other saints as a byword or curse 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 let my desire for power and dominance influence how I lead, guide, and make decisions in regards to those entrusted to me?

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

Did my desire for power and dominance influence the way I relate to, guide, and make decisions about those in my life who look up to me for guidance?

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

Did my desire for power and dominance influence how I interacted with others in positions of authority, such as family members or community leaders?

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

Greed

Did I make accumulating material wealth 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 accumulating wealth, possessions, and luxuries 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 accumulating wealth and material possessions an excessive priority in my life?

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

Oppression

Did I mistreat, harass, or discriminate against others through unjust and cruel exercises of power or authority over them?

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.

Have I used my authority, influence, or position to mistreat, harass, or discriminate against 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.

Did you, through your words or actions, mistreat others?

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

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 I take for granted the blessings 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.

Have I questioned God's existence in my mind?

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

Have you entertained doubts about God's existence in your mind?

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 rely solely on my own abilities and failed to recognize my dependence on God's guidance in times of uncertainty?

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 solely rely on my own abilities, failing to acknowledge God's presence in all aspects of life?

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

Envy

Have I secretly wished that others would lose their blessings, such as good fortune or success in their endeavors?

Envy leads us to have discontent for another's possessions so we won't feel the pain of comparison or perceived lack in our own lives.

Have I secretly wished that others' accomplishments, successes, or blessings were not truly theirs, but rather mine?

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 others have, fixating on coveting their possessions?

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

Incontinence

Did I lack self-control in my words when speaking to others, potentially leading to disrespect for their dignity?

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

Have I entertained inappropriate feelings toward someone else's spouse, especially in situations where we have spent extensive time together or engaged in conversations that might be perceived as overly familiar?

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.

Gluttony

Did you overindulge in eating or drinking beyond what's reasonable, especially when participating in social gatherings or special occasions?

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

Did I overindulge in eating or drinking, particularly during social gatherings or celebrations, beyond what was necessary for my own nourishment?

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

Did you overindulge in eating or drinking beyond what's reasonable, perhaps through excessive dining out, large gatherings with food, or consuming rich foods that you know are unhealthy?

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

Prodigality

Have I excessively and wastefully used my resources to prioritize indulgences over my family's financial needs?

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

Have I squandered resources entrusted to me for unnecessary personal indulgences, prioritizing them over essential family needs?

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

Gossip

Have I taken pleasure in discussing others' private affairs, even if what I shared was true?

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

Have I taken pleasure in sharing others' private affairs, even if what I shared was true?

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

Have I taken pleasure in discussing others' faults or private affairs, even if what I shared was true among friends at community events, family gatherings, or while engaging in social activities?

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

Impiety

Did I work on Sunday when it could have been avoided for rest and worship?

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

Did I fail to show reverence for the Most Blessed Sacrament on all occasions where it should have been shown?

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

Did you fail to show reverence for the Most Blessed Sacrament in your daily life, particularly during visits to Eucharistic Adoration or other sacred places where it is displayed?

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 Most Blessed Sacrament during private prayers, family gatherings, or moments of contemplation?

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

Anger

Have I nursed anger rather than seeking reconciliation, especially in my relationships with those closest to me?

Uncontrolled anger corrupts our own heart, damages our relationship with both God and neighbor.

Impurity

Did you use substances, practices, or objects to deliberately prevent pregnancy in any relationship?

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

Did you engage in practices that prevent pregnancy, using substances or objects for this purpose?

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

Have I dressed in a way that is modest, befitting my dignity and respect for myself?

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

Have I walked immodestly in a way that respects my dignity?

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

Infidelity

Did you break your vow of fidelity in marriage?

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 the vow of fidelity in my marriage?

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 you broken your marriage vows through any actions or deeds that could be considered infidelity?

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

Fornication

Did I engage in any non-procreative intimate relations outside of marriage?

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

Violence

Have I knowingly acted in ways that brought pain or suffering to others through my interactions, words, or deeds?

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

Adultery

Have I entertained 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.

Have I entertained in my heart improper feelings towards another person who is committed to their 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

Did you interact with mediums, fortune tellers, tarot card readers, or Ouija boards using words that implied seeking supernatural knowledge through forbidden means?

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

Have you interacted with mediums, fortune tellers, tarot card readers, or Ouija boards through words, seeking to bypass God's providence and divine will?

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

Presumption

Did you deliberately persist in taking God's mercy for granted, without making any effort to change your ways, even when faced with challenges and uncertainties that required faith and perseverance?

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, taking God's forgiveness for granted without making any effort to change while engaging in routine activities that bring you comfort and relaxation?

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.

Have you persistently assumed God's mercy without making any effort to change your thoughts, words, or actions that are contrary to His will?

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

Did you put off going to confession while in a state of sin, presuming that God's mercy would still be available later?

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

Apostasy

Have you explicitly rejected the existence of God, either through thought or expressed verbally to another, at any point in your life?

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 God's existence, either through internal doubts or expressions to others, especially in light of the Church's teachings on the importance of acknowledging and worshiping a divine Creator?

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.

A Catholic Examination of Conscience

Senior, Committed Father with Adult Children

Disobedience

Condoning

Uncharity

Lukewarmness

Merciless

Callousness

Sloth

Vainglory

Theft

False Witness

Resent

Effeminacy

Worldliness

Lust

Imprudence

Vanity

Sensuality

Murder

Scandal

Impenitence

Blasphemy

Ambition

Greed

Oppression

Autonomy

Envy

Incontinence

Gluttony

Prodigality

Gossip

Impiety

Anger

Impurity

Infidelity

Fornication

Violence

Adultery

Sorcery

Presumption

Apostasy