A Catholic Examination of Conscience
Senior, Committed Father with Children Under 18
In preparing for confession, please read through the examination questions and explanations thoughtfully, reflecting on each point and honestly identifying where you've fallen short of God's call in your life. You may click and remove any irrelevant ones as you proceed. Take mental note of any serious sins that require confession, focusing on being thorough but not scrupulous, then use these insights to make a complete and sincere confession to your priest.
Updated: December 3, 2024
Read Time: 16 minutes
Disobedience
Was I disobedient to my parents by failing to respect their wisdom and guidance in matters related to my children's upbringing?
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 deeds?
As per the fourth commandment, it's a child's duty to respond to parental love, wisdom, and respect with obedience.
Did you reject the unity of the Church when frustrated by others' 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."
Have I rejected the unity of the Church when I became frustrated or disagreed with others in 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 I rejected the unity of the Church when disagreeing with fellow parishioners, confusing their human flaws with Christ's divine nature?
Rejecting Church unity due to frustration with individuals is sinful because it confuses the Church's divine nature and eternal truths with the human imperfections of its members, while also violating Christ's prayer "that they may all be one."
Did I skip fasting on days designated by the Church?
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 skip an obligatory day during a designated period of fasting, such as Lent?
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 become sterilized? (Rephrased to consider demographic's traits and experiences: As one navigates life, did I willfully surrender control over my own fertility, disregarding God's plan for reproduction?)
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 ever speak words that mocked, scorned, or ridiculed 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.
Did I engage in unnecessary work on a Sunday, thus disrespecting the Lord's Day?
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).
Have I, through my actions and attitudes towards them, dishonored my mother and father?
Respecting parental authority helps maintain proper order in families and society, and that parents deserve honor for their role in giving life, nurturing, and forming their children in faith and virtue.
Have I dishonored my mother and father through my actions and attitudes by disrespecting their authority or will?
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, shown disrespect towards my parents by failing to honor them for their role in giving life, nurturing, and forming me in faith and virtue?
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, 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 ever lead other Catholics to remain away from receiving Sacraments or attending Mass by my words?
One of the spiritual works of mercy is to admonish the sinner and to correct them out of love and charity instead of condoning sin.
Did I condone a funeral where human remains were not buried in accordance with Church teachings on the dignity of the human body?
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, such as unwholesome ideas or immoral relationships?
Parents have to protect their children's well-being, guarding them from harmful elements that could damage their faith or lead them into sin.
Did I permit my child to be exposed to bad influences through their peers, media, or other external factors that could damage their faith or lead them into sin?
Parents have to protect their children's well-being, guarding them from harmful elements that could damage their faith or lead them into sin.
Did I permit my child to be exposed to influences that could undermine 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 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 give approval for 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 give approval to another Catholic through words for them to marry outside the Church?
Marriage is a sacrament within the Catholic faith and thus giving approval and not admonishing the action gives scandal by condoning.
Uncharity
Do I look down upon others based on their job, nationality, or other trait that is not inherent to who they are?
This sin dehumanizes people on the margins when we are called to love each other as a child of God as Jesus loved us.
Do I look down upon others based on their job, nationality, or other trait that does not directly concern 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 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 interests over your relationships with family and 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 allow my own pursuits and interests to overshadow the needs, concerns, and well-being of 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.
Did I allow my own needs to overshadow those of my loved ones in our shared activities, community service, or charitable endeavors?
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 permit someone 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 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, such as family members, friends, or neighbors who are experiencing financial hardship, illness, or other forms of distress?
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 growing in my faith, or am I content with simply attending to its basics without deepening my understanding of God's love?
Lukewarmness in spiritual growth is sinful because one essentially chooses comfort and mediocrity over the transformative love God offers, which Jesus specifically warned against in Revelation 3:16.
Am I complacent in my spiritual 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 devotion to loving and serving God, especially when engaging in personal projects or entrepreneurial ventures that take time away from prayer and spiritual pursuits?
We tend to sin by failing in effort to know and love God while exerting other efforts on worldly things.
Merciless
Did I speak harshly or criticize others?
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 who was suffering when they had nowhere else to turn, but I had the means to assist them?
As part of the corporal works of mercy, we're called to be merciful and compassionate to those in distress.
Did you fail to visit someone who was ill, leaving them feeling neglected and unattended?
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 I neglect to visit or provide help to someone who was ill?
This is sinful because it violates Jesus's direct command to care for the sick (Matthew 25:36) and fails to fulfill our fundamental Christian duty to show compassion and mercy to those who are suffering.
Did I turn away from showing compassion and mercy to someone who was ill?
This is sinful because it violates Jesus's direct command to care for the sick (Matthew 25:36) and fails to fulfill our fundamental Christian duty to show compassion and mercy to those who are suffering.
Sloth
Did you deprive those who were ill and needed your help of the assistance they required?
Neglecting the sick violates Jesus's direct command to care for the ill as if they were Christ himself.
Did you turn away from those who were physically hurting and needed your assistance?
Neglecting the sick violates Jesus's direct command to care for the ill as if they were Christ himself.
Have I failed to pass on my faith in Christ to this child?
Parents have the duty to be the first teachers of faith to their children, as promised in their child's baptism and outlined in Church teaching as the fundamental responsibility of Christian parenthood.
Have I failed to teach my child about Christ by neglecting opportunities for spiritual guidance and formation?
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 in Christ with my child, and if so, have I neglected this fundamental responsibility entrusted to me as a Christian parent?
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 put my own interests ahead of my family's genuine needs and wellbeing by neglecting their emotional support, guidance, or shared activities?
Neglecting family duties is considered sinful because it violates both divine law and natural law, where God entrusts us with specific responsibilities to nurture, protect, and care for our family members as part of our fundamental Christian vocation.
Have I put my own 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 interests ahead of my family's genuine needs and wellbeing, neglecting responsibilities that were entrusted to me by God?
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 neglect my child's religious education by not taking sufficient steps to pass on our faith?
Parents have a primary and sacred duty to pass on the faith to their children, as they are considered their children's first and most important religious teachers who are directly responsible for their spiritual formation and eternal salvation.
Did I fail to provide my child with regular opportunities for their spiritual growth and development?
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, especially during those quiet moments in my day that would have allowed for greater intimacy 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 neglect to pray daily, showing ingratitude for God's presence in your 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 Mass on a Sunday or Holy Day of Obligation due to allowing worldly priorities, such as outdoor activities like gardening, hobbies, volunteering, history, travel, reading, watching movies, attending community events, socializing with family and friends, participating in online forums, taking online courses, pursuing certification programs, managing expenses during retirement, or enjoying classic sitcoms, sports events, and documentaries to take precedence over my spiritual obligations?
deliberately choosing to skip Mass for non-serious reasons shows disobedience to Church authority, ingratitude for Christ's sacrifice, and places worldly priorities above our highest obligation to worship God.
Did you deprioritize and skip Mass on a Sunday or Holy Day of Obligation, choosing to engage in other activities instead, perhaps ones that are pleasant or entertaining?
deliberately choosing to skip Mass for non-serious reasons shows disobedience to Church authority, ingratitude for Christ's sacrifice, and places worldly priorities above our highest obligation to worship God.
Did I deprioritize participation in a Sunday or Holy Day of Obligation, choosing instead to engage in worldly activities?
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 personal benefit for sharing my charitable giving with others?
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 self-praise for giving alms through my charitable actions?
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 public image and gaining social approval 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 family, friends, and community than pleasing God?
Vainglory corrupts our good actions by doing them for human acclaim rather than for God's glory, making us slaves to others' opinions rather than true servants of God.
Am I more focused on seeking praise and recognition from others, such as family, friends, or community members, than pleasing God through my thoughts and actions?
Vainglory corrupts our good actions by doing them for human acclaim rather than for God's glory, making us slaves to others' opinions rather than true servants of God.
Did you publicly distance yourself from your faith when faced with social pressure or discomfort, choosing human respect over 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 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 honor my commitments by neglecting to pay what I owe?
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 stealing?
While not stealing yourself, this sin still participates in breaking the seventh commandment and shows disregard for others' rightful property and dignity.
Did you aid in others stealing?
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 or unknowingly assist others in stealing something?
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 from family members, friends, or acquaintances?
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 dishonestly taken from others something that does not 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 you avoid paying others a fair price or wage in your daily dealings, perhaps when purchasing goods or services for yourself or others?
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 by intentionally withholding funds from them?
Failing to pay a fair wage or price is a sin because it violates both the seventh commandment against stealing and the principle of social justice.
Did you avoid taking advantage of others by paying them an unfair price for your goods or services?
Failing to pay a fair wage or price is a sin because it violates both the seventh commandment against stealing and the principle of social justice.
False Witness
Did I misrepresent myself to gain an advantage through false 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 in my personal relationships?
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 deceive someone through your words 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 I speak falsely about 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.
Did I speak falsely about 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 led others to believe what was 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.
Did I tell a lie to others?
Deceiving others is a form of bearing false witness, damages trust between people, and breaks down human relationships that should reflect God's truth and love.
Have I deliberately exaggerated, misrepresented the truth, or lied about others in conversations, written accounts, or formal statements?
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 settings, community events, church gatherings, or online forums related to shared interests?
Bearing false witness puts one's desires over truth, justice, and love of God.
Have I deliberately exaggerated, misrepresented the truth, or lied about my family members, friends, or acquaintances in informal conversations or online interactions?
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.
Did I become sterilized in my body?
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 against those who have wronged me, particularly in situations where I feel taken advantage of or mistreated?
Holding a grudge with enemies is sinful as it directly contradicts Christ's command to "love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you."
Did I harbor any resentment towards those who have wronged me in my community, family, or personal life?
Holding a grudge with enemies is sinful as it directly contradicts Christ's command to "love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you."
Did I harbor any resentment towards individuals who have wronged me, such as family members, neighbors, or acquaintances?
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 through hurtful words, damaging relationships, or fostering resentment?
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 verbally withhold forgiveness from someone who has 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 receive Holy Communion while knowingly in a state of sin, possibly due to unresolved resentment or unconfessed wrongdoings within my family relationships?
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, through thoughts or silence, abandon my Catholic faith for any length of time?
This sin represents a deliberate rejection of God's revealed truth and the covenant relationship established through baptism, breaking the promise to remain faithful to Christ and His Church.
Effeminacy
Do I fear to speak the name of Jesus and share His message with others who may be struggling?
Being ashamed or afraid to proclaim Christ represents a denial of our baptismal call to evangelize, shows lack of trust in God's protection, and fails to fulfill Jesus's command to "go and make disciples of all nations."
Do I fear to speak the name of Jesus in our community gatherings?
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 your pursuit of approval from others lead you to compromise your beliefs rather than standing firm in what you 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 compromise your beliefs in order to gain approval from others, rather than standing firm in what you know to be right?
Prioritizing human approval over standing firm in God's truth demonstrates both moral cowardice and places human opinion above divine authority.
Did you remain silent about Church teachings to avoid social discomfort or conflict?
While it is a hardship and uncomfortable, we should not display softtness, but rather be witnesses to the Truth.
Did I remain silent about Church teachings to avoid discomfort among my family, friends, and community.
While it is a hardship and uncomfortable, we should not display softtness, but rather be witnesses to the Truth.
Retaliation
Do I harbor thoughts of revenge against others?
Entertaining thoughts of revenge is sinful because it rejects Christ's teaching of forgiveness and love of enemies, choosing instead to harbor malice and a desire for personal retaliation rather than leaving justice to God.
Lust
Did you engage your mind in viewing pornography?
Interacting with pornography reduces human beings to mere objects for personal gratification, violating their inherent dignity and worth as children of God.
Did you reduce others to mere objects of your interest, entertainment, or usefulness, rather than seeing them as full human beings, worthy of respect and dignity?
While not sexual in nature, this sin is still a form of lust in that it objectifies others who are created in God's image and possesses inherent dignity,
Did you reduce others to their usefulness or appearance in your thoughts, rather than seeing them as full human beings?
While not sexual in nature, this sin is still a form of lust in that it objectifies others who are created in God's image and possesses inherent dignity,
Did you see others as merely a means to accomplish something in your life, rather than respecting their inherent dignity and value?
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 committed actual or simulated sensual acts 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 committed actual or simulated acts of 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 sensual acts outside of marriage through deeds inspired by lust?
While our sexual nature is a gift, using it to indulge in sensual pleasures is sinful as it's ordered for a particular purpose within marriage.
Imprudence
Have I spent excessive time on meaningless distractions within my daily routine, allowing them to compromise 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.
Sensuality
Did I desire worldly experiences over growth in faith?
Prioritizing worldly pleasures and experiences over spiritual development is considered sinful as it violates the First Commandment by placing temporal desires above one's eternal relationship with God.
Did I desire worldly experiences over growth in virtue?
Prioritizing worldly pleasures and experiences over spiritual development is considered sinful as it violates the First Commandment by placing temporal desires above one's eternal relationship with God.
Did I desire worldly pleasures over growth in virtue?
Prioritizing worldly pleasures and experiences over spiritual development is considered sinful as it violates the First Commandment by placing temporal desires above one's eternal relationship with God.
Did I use controlled substances to 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 I deliberately impair my God-given reason and free will by using controlled substances?
Using controlled substances deliberately impairs your God-given reason and free will, and an attempt to avoid dealing with life's challenges rather than facing them with God's help.
Did you use controlled substances to detach from your responsibilities?
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 allow your desires for physical comfort, entertainment, or pleasure to take precedence over time spent in prayer, reflection, and deepening your 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 you allow your pursuit of personal pleasures to distract you from deepening your 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 thoughts and desires for indulgence in pleasures 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.
Murder
Have you murdered anyone by your deeds?
The taking of one's life intentionally violates the fifth commandment and takes away the precious gift of life that was granted by God.
Did I ever participate in an abortion, directly or indirectly?
It's a grave sin to actively participate in the intentional taking of another's life, which robs the gift of life that was granted to others by God.
Scandal
Did I try to make someone else commit a sinful act through my own deeds?
Leading others to sin (also called "scandal") is sinful because it actively harms another person's soul by encouraging them away from God, making you spiritually responsible both for your own sin and for potentially damaging another's relationship with God.
Did I try to lead someone else into doing something that would have been sinful?
Leading others to sin (also called "scandal") is sinful because it actively harms another person's soul by encouraging them away from God, making you spiritually responsible both for your own sin and for potentially damaging another's relationship with God.
Impenitence
Have I refused to admit my wrongdoing, clinging to it instead of turning back to God's mercy?
Impenitence is sinful because refusing to repent is a prideful rejection of God's mercy.
Have I allowed a particular sin to remain in my heart, refusing to let go of the guilt that comes from refusing to admit my wrongdoing?
Impenitence is sinful because refusing to repent is a prideful rejection of God's mercy.
Have I been unwilling to confront my own wrongdoing, refusing to acknowledge my mistakes?
Impenitence is sinful because refusing to repent is a prideful rejection of God's mercy.
Blasphemy
Did you swear to God, especially in moments of frustration, anger, or when speaking about difficult situations?
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 by receiving unworthily during a special occasion or celebration?
This mortal sin is a form of sacrilege and profanes the real presence of Christ and shows grave disrespect for the sacrament by receiving unworthily.
Did I receive Holy Communion while being aware that my heart was not at peace with God?
This mortal sin is a form of sacrilege and profanes the real presence of Christ and shows grave disrespect for the sacrament by receiving unworthily.
Did you use the sacred name of God as a byword or curse when speaking?
This is sinful as using God's holy name carelessly or disrespectfully shows contempt for His divine nature and fails to give proper honor to the sacred name of God, which should only be used in prayer, worship, or respectful discussion.
Did you use the name of Jesus or God in vain conversation or careless chatter?
This is sinful as using God's holy name carelessly or disrespectfully shows contempt for His divine nature and fails to give proper honor to the sacred name of God, which should only be used in prayer, worship, or respectful discussion.
Did I speak God's name in jest, mockery, or disrespect?
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 my decisions and treatment of others in ways that prioritize my own interests over their well-being and dignity?
inordinate ambition and the obsession with power corrupts the soul by placing our desire to dominate and control above God's authority, turning us away from humble service and toward prideful self-exaltation.
Did I let my desire for power and dominance influence how I relate to others in our community, particularly those who may look up to me or rely on 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.
Greed
Did I make acquiring wealth, possessions, and material comfort 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 wealth and material possessions a driving force in my life?
This sin makes money an idol that replaces trust in God's providence, turning what should be a tool for good into an object of worship.
Did I make accumulating possessions for their own sake 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.
Oppression
Did you, in your interactions with others, mistreat 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.
Autonomy
Did you take for granted the good things in your 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 God's providence in my life, forgetting to acknowledge the blessings that come from Him rather than solely from my own efforts or accomplishments?
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 credit for my own accomplishments, forgetting to acknowledge God's providence that enabled me?
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 have any 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 fail to recognize my complete dependence on God's guidance while attempting to navigate life's challenges?
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 you solely rely on your own abilities to navigate life's challenges, rather than humbly seeking guidance from God?
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 jealous of others' blessings, such as their success, possessions, or good fortune, and secretly wished that they would lose them?
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 of others' successes and secretly wished they would fail?
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 inwardly resented others' accomplishments?
Envy leads us to have discontent for another's possessions so we won't feel the pain of comparison or perceived lack in our own lives.
Incontinence
Did I lack self-control and speak to others with vulgar or inappropriate language that offended their dignity?
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, especially those in my community or family, with vulgar or inappropriate language that violated their dignity?
This sin of incontinence shows a lack of self-restraint and violates the dignity of others.
Did I lack self-control in speaking to others with words that showed disrespect for their dignity?
This sin of incontinence shows a lack of self-restraint and violates the dignity of others.
Gluttony
Did you overindulge in eating or drinking beyond what's reasonable, especially when it comes to enjoying special occasions or celebrations?
This sin of gluttony demonstrates an inordinate attachment to worldly pleasures and rejects the call to temperance.
Did I overindulge in eating or drinking beyond what's reasonable, demonstrating an excessive attachment to worldly pleasures and rejecting the call to temperance?
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, especially when enjoying family gatherings, holiday meals, or social events that often feature abundant food and drink?
This sin of gluttony demonstrates an inordinate attachment to worldly pleasures and rejects the call to temperance.
Prodigality
Have I let excessive and wasteful spending on hobbies or personal interests take precedence over my financial obligations or family needs?
This sin violates the virtue of stewardship by recklessly risking resources God has entrusted to us, while potentially harming our ability to provide for family and those in need.
Have I allowed excessive and wasteful gambling to take precedence over my family's financial needs, risking our ability to provide for them?
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 allowed my love of outdoor activities, hobbies, or volunteering to take precedence over my financial obligations or family needs in a way that is excessive and wasteful?
This sin violates the virtue of stewardship by recklessly risking resources God has entrusted to us, while potentially harming our ability to provide for family and those in need.
Gossip
Have I taken pleasure in discussing others' faults or private affairs, even if what I shared was true?
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, during casual conversations or online interactions?
Gossip violates human dignity and charity by harming others' reputations for our own entertainment or pride.
Have I taken pleasure in sharing with others private details about our social lives, even if what was shared was true?
Gossip violates human dignity and charity by harming others' reputations for our own entertainment or pride.
Impurity
Did you intentionally use practices or substances to prevent pregnancy, thereby separating the unitive and procreative purposes of marriage?
This sin intentionally separates the unitive and procreative purposes of marriage and violates the proper use of one's sexuality.
Have I dressed in a way that is respectful to my dignity and does not provoke impure thoughts in others?
Wearing attire that's exceptionally revealing or indecent violates chastity and beckons sins from others.
Have I dressed immodestly in ways that compromise my dignity?
Wearing attire that's exceptionally revealing or indecent violates chastity and beckons sins from others.
Have I dressed in ways that respect my own dignity, particularly when engaging in community service or participating in social events?
Wearing attire that's exceptionally revealing or indecent violates chastity and beckons sins from others.
Infidelity
Did I commit any infidelity in my marriage by breaking vows?
Fidelity in marriage is viewed as a sacred covenant made before God - not just a contract between people, thus breaking vows is seen as a betrayal of both divine and human trust.
Did I break my marriage vows by failing to be faithful in word, deed, or intention?
Fidelity in marriage is viewed as a sacred covenant made before God - not just a contract between people, thus breaking vows is seen as a betrayal of both divine and human trust.
Fornication
Did I have 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 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 deliberately inflicted pain or suffering on others?
When we deliberately harm others, we attack their God-given dignity.
Have I knowingly acted in ways that inflicted physical or emotional pain on someone else through my actions, such as harsh words, thoughtless behavior, or intentional harm?
When we deliberately harm others, we attack their God-given dignity.
Adultery
Have I harbored inappropriate desires toward someone else's spouse through thoughts that compromised their dignity and commitment?
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 inappropriate feelings toward someone else's spouse in situations that test my commitment to my own marriage, such as shared hobbies or social events?
This sin undermines the sacred bond of marriage by treating another person as an object of desire rather than respecting their dignity and commitment to their spouse.
Sorcery
Have I ever, in my words or conversations, sought guidance from mediums, fortune tellers, tarot card readers, or Ouija boards?
This sin is a violation of the First Commandment because it attempts to bypass God's providence and divine will by seeking supernatural knowledge through forbidden means, effectively placing trust in occult practices rather than in God.
Did I engage in conversation with those who claim to possess supernatural knowledge, such as mediums, fortune tellers, tarot card readers, or Ouija board operators?
This sin is a violation of the First Commandment because it attempts to bypass God's providence and divine will by seeking supernatural knowledge through forbidden means, effectively placing trust in occult practices rather than in God.
Did you ever engage in conversations or seek guidance from those who claim to possess supernatural knowledge or abilities, such as mediums, fortune tellers, tarot card readers, or Ouija board users?
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 life for the better?
Presumption of God's mercy is a sin against hope because it takes His forgiveness for granted without true repentance or effort to amend one's life, showing disrespect for divine justice and mercy.
Did you deliberately persist in sinful behavior, taking God's mercy for granted without making any genuine effort to change your thought patterns?
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 recklessly depended on God's mercy without making any genuine effort to change your behavior, counting solely on His forgiveness for sins that you deliberately perpetuate?
Presumption of God's mercy is a sin against hope because it takes His forgiveness for granted without true repentance or effort to amend one's life, showing disrespect for divine justice and mercy.
Did you procrastinate going to confession while in a state of sin by recklessly presuming that you had sufficient time later to repent, thus showing contempt for God's mercy?
Deliberately delaying confession while in mortal sin is a serious offense because it recklessly endangers your soul's salvation, shows contempt for God's mercy through the sacrament of reconciliation, and demonstrates prideful presumption that you'll have time later to repent.
Did you procrastinate going to confession while in a state of sin by delaying your spiritual commitments, neglecting to prioritize your relationship with God, and putting off repentance, which showed contempt for His mercy through the sacrament of reconciliation?
Deliberately delaying confession while in mortal sin is a serious offense because it recklessly endangers your soul's salvation, shows contempt for God's mercy through the sacrament of reconciliation, and demonstrates prideful presumption that you'll have time later to repent.
Apostasy
Have you explicitly rejected the existence of God, either through private thoughts or expressed to others, in any context related to your faith, values, or worldview?
Denying God's existence after having been baptized apostasy is one of the gravest sins possible because it is declaring the Author of Life and Source of all being to be non-existent, which directly contradicts both reason and divine revelation.
Have you explicitly rejected the existence of God, either internally through your thoughts or to others by speaking such words?
Denying God's existence after having been baptized apostasy is one of the gravest sins possible because it is declaring the Author of Life and Source of all being to be non-existent, which directly contradicts both reason and divine revelation.
Have you explicitly rejected the existence of God, either internally through your thoughts or to others, by denying His presence during a personal moment of reflection or discussion?
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.
Impiety
Did I fail to always show reverence for the Most Blessed Sacrament in my daily life, even when participating in familiar or routine activities?
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 Eucharistic adoration or other solemn events, thus demonstrating a lack of faith and proper worship due to God?
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 your daily life, particularly when interacting with family members during meals or family gatherings?
This sin is in failing to show proper reverence demonstrates a lack of faith, respect, and proper worship due to God.