A Catholic Examination of Conscience

Senior, Separated Father with Both Minor And Adult Children

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

Updated: December 3, 2024

Read Time: 14 minutes

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Disobedience

Was I disobedient to my parents by refusing to follow their advice on matters that concerned me?

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 with brothers and sisters in Christ?

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 reject Church unity when experiencing frustration or disappointment with members within your community, parish, or local church, potentially leading to a disunity that was not in line with Christ's prayer for oneness?

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 condone scattering or failure to properly dispose of human remains at any funeral, potentially disrespecting the dignity of the deceased?

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 speak disparagingly about the Church?

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

Have I disobeyed my mother and father through my actions?

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

Have I disobeyed my parents, especially my mother, by actions taken in response to their needs or requests?

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, given others cause to remain 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 discourage fellow Catholics from participating in Sacraments or Mass by my words?

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

Did I give my fellow Catholics reason to stay away from Sacraments or Mass by my words?

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

Did I permit my child to persist in error by failing to speak the truth, even when it was difficult?

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

Did I fail to correct my child's mistake in order to avoid discussing it?

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

Have I allowed pressure from others to compromise my values, rather than standing firm in what I know is right?

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

Did you condone a funeral where human remains were not buried?

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

Did I permit my child to be exposed to bad influences through their associations, media consumption, or activities?

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 through their interactions with peers, media, or other external factors?

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 children's exposure to harmful influences in our home?

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

Did I give approval by words that another Catholic would 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.

Did I give tacit approval or fail to correct another Catholic when they were contemplating marrying outside of the Church?

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

Did I condone another Catholic to receive sacraments outside the Church?

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

Did you, in any conversation or discussion, ever endorse or justify abortion or euthanasia?

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

Did I endorse or justify any act that would result in taking an innocent life through abortion or euthanasia, perhaps by speaking out in favor of such a practice or by failing to speak against it when opportunity arose?

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

Did I, through my words or conversations, implicitly endorse or justify abortion or euthanasia in discussions about end-of-life care or difficult medical decisions?

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

Adultery

Did I forgo a valid Catholic marriage through my actions, particularly in regards to being faithful to my current spouse and maintaining a sacramental bond?

For Catholics, marriage is sacramental and needs to occur in the Church or receive a dispensation if either people are not Catholic.

Have I entertained inappropriate feelings towards someone else's spouse through conversations, online interactions, or shared 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.

Have I looked at someone else's spouse in an inappropriate way?

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.

Uncharity

Do I turn away from those who are marginalized, including strangers and displaced individuals in my community?

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 marginalized in our community, including the homeless and displaced?

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

Do I look down upon others based on their job, nationality, or other trait that is different from my own?

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 when engaging in conversations about my own life experiences?

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 you put your own interests before the needs of those around you, such as your children or 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 put my own personal preferences ahead of the needs of those around me, such as 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.

Do I speak to others in a way that denies their dignity as children of God?

Treating others with disrespect denies their inherent dignity as beings created in God's image and violates Christ's command to love one another as He has loved us.

Did you permit someone to be treated unfairly, perhaps in situations where it was within your power to intervene?

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 injustice 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 failed to assist those who needed my help in some practical way?

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 failed to assist someone in need when they sought my help?

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

Have I shown compassion and practical assistance to those in need, particularly in my community and among acquaintances?

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 volunteer work with community organizations that benefit my neighbors, friends, or acquaintances?

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 my family, neighbors, and other acquaintances in need?

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

Lukewarmness

Am I satisfied with merely existing in my faith, rather than striving to grow in it?

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

Am I content to merely maintain my faith, rather than allowing it to transform me?

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 pursuits?

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.

Did I fail to provide my adult children with regular spiritual guidance and support, despite our familial relationships and shared life experiences?

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.

Callousness

Did I fail to use my means to assist someone in distress when I had the opportunity?

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

Did I fail to show genuine concern for someone who was struggling financially when I had the means to provide support?

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

Did I turn away from caring for someone who needed help due to their illness?

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.

Resent

Have I rejected the unity of the Catholic Church when I harbored resentment towards individual Catholics, confusing their human imperfections with Christ's divinity?

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

Did I become sterilized?

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 through a deliberate decision that reflects a lack of trust in God's plan for my life?

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

Did I become sterilized through a deliberate act that demonstrates a lack of trust in God's providence for my life?

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

Have I harbored any resentment against those who have wronged me, such as family members 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 I harbor any resentment towards those who have wronged me in some way, even if it was just through my thoughts?

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 others forgiveness when they 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 you receive Holy Communion while knowingly harboring unresolved resentment against others?

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 knowingly harboring unrepented resentments towards loved ones?

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

Have I held onto resentment against my adult children, nursing bitter feelings rather than seeking reconciliation in our relationships?

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

Did I give up on my faith for any length of time, even if only through doubts in my mind?

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.

Theft

Did you intentionally fail to pay debts owed to others?

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

Did I intentionally neglect to pay debts that were 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 withhold payment from others to whom I owe debts?

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

Did I encourage others to 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 assist others in concealing something that didn't belong to them?

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

Did I pay others a price that was just and fair, taking into account their needs and my own resources?

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, in my dealings with others, deliberately pay them less than what they were fairly owed?

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

False Witness

Did you misrepresent yourself in order to gain an advantage, such as securing financial benefits, favorably influencing social connections, or gaining prestige among peers?

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.

Have I willfully deceived others, particularly in social interactions where honesty is expected?

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 done something to intentionally mislead 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 intentionally misrepresented the truth 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 my interactions and conversations?

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

Have I deliberately exaggerated, misrepresented the truth, or lied to others through words in social settings or casual conversations?

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 past accomplishments, financial situation, or relationships in social settings, such as gatherings with friends, family, or community organizations?

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

Effeminacy

Do I fear to say the name of Jesus, especially when speaking with my adult children about their spiritual lives?

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."

Have I compromised my values to fit in with others' expectations rather than standing firm in what I know is true?

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

Did you remain silent about Church teachings to avoid discomfort among your peers or family members?

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

Prodigality

Have I indulged in excessive idle pursuits, squandering precious time?

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

Have I allowed excessive and wasteful gambling to take precedence over my financial responsibilities, potentially harming my ability to provide for myself and those in need?

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 been excessively and wastefully spending money on leisure activities, putting them before 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.

Sensuality

Did I prioritize worldly experiences, such as leisurely activities and hobbies, over growth in faith and spiritual development?

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

Did I use controlled substances to obscure my perception of 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 use controlled substances to avoid facing life's challenges in a way that disrespects my God-given reason and free will?

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 allow my desires for leisurely activities to distract me from cultivating a deeper relationship with God?

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

Scandal

Did I encourage someone to commit a sinful act through my words, actions, or influence?

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

Did you use your words to publicly downplay or deny your faith when faced with social pressure or discomfort, potentially causing others who look up to you to doubt their own Catholic convictions?

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.

Impenitence

Have I obstinately refused to acknowledge wrongdoing, shutting myself off from God's mercy?

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

Sloth

Have I failed to make Christ known to my child in word and deed?

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

Have I neglected to share my faith and values with my adult child, potentially hindering their growth in knowing Christ?

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

Have I failed to share my faith with my child on a regular basis?

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 needs, neglecting to prioritize their genuine 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, potentially neglecting responsibilities towards them in the process?

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, perhaps through prioritizing leisure activities or personal pursuits over spending quality time with 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.

Did you fail to prioritize the spiritual development of your child's soul?

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 providing regular guidance to my child's spiritual development in accordance with Catholic teachings?

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 communicate daily with God through prayer?

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

Did I neglect daily prayer, allowing myself to grow disconnected from 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 I fail to dedicate regular time to prayer, considering it essential for my spiritual growth and relationship 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 I deprioritize and skip Mass on a Sunday or Holy Day of Obligation, placing my personal preferences above my solemn duty to worship God?

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

Blasphemy

Did you receive Holy Communion while knowingly in a state of serious spiritual unrest?

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 invoke the name of God as a curse, blasphemy, or profanity in your words?

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

Did you use the name of Jesus or God in words that were careless, irreverent, or profane?

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 to express anger, frustration, or annoyance in conversation?

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

Vainglory

Am I more focused on defending my reputation and seeking human praise than pleasing God through my words, actions, and accomplishments?

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 community organizations 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 concerned with maintaining my public image than pleasing God, especially when it comes to how others perceive me in retirement?

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 pressure to conform to societal norms, prioritizing human acceptance 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.

Ambition

Did I let my desire for power and dominance influence my decisions, especially when interacting with others in my community or family?

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

Did your ambition to maintain authority and control in retirement, perhaps through volunteering or leadership roles, influence your decisions and treatment of others?

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

Did my pursuit of recognition and respect from others through my volunteer work and community activities influence my decisions and treatment of them?

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

Oppression

Did I unfairly use my authority, position, or influence to 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.

Have I ever used my authority or position to 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.

Lust

Did you view others primarily in relation to your own needs, interests, or purposes, rather than respecting their inherent dignity and worth?

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

Did I treat others as mere objects for my own purposes, rather than acknowledging their inherent dignity and worth?

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

Have I had actual or simulated sexual acts outside of a committed, sacramental 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 sexual acts outside of marriage, particularly through visual or suggestive media that objectify others, or engaged in similar deeds that fuel my desires?

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

Have I engaged in lustful thoughts, words, or actions that led to simulated or actual acts of intimacy 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.

Autonomy

Did I take for granted the good things in my life, such as my retirement savings, my relationships with loved ones, or my physical health, forgetting to acknowledge their source in God's providence?

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

Did you take for granted the blessings in your life, forgetting to acknowledge their source in God's providence, thinking that they were solely due to your own hard work and determination?

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 blessings, assuming they were solely due to my own hard work and determination?

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

Did you ever harbor doubts about God's existence?

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

Did I hesitate to trust God's existence in my thoughts, words, and actions?

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 through your reflections on life, faith, and spirituality?

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

Have I trusted solely in my own abilities, rather than recognizing God's role in guiding me through life's experiences?

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

Did I trust solely in my own abilities to navigate life's challenges, rather than acknowledging my dependence on God's guidance?

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

Incontinence

Did I lack self-control when speaking to others in informal settings, potentially using language that could be considered vulgar or inappropriate?

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

Did I lack self-control and use hurtful words that demeaned others, violating their dignity?

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

Did you lack self-control in conversations, causing others to feel demeaned by your choice of words?

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

Gluttony

Did I overindulge in eating or drinking beyond what is reasonable, particularly during social gatherings with friends and family?

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

Gossip

Have I taken pleasure in sharing others' private affairs, even if what I shared was true, during conversations or discussions with friends and family?

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

Have I indulged in discussing others' private affairs, even if what was shared was true, for my own amusement or to impress friends?

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

Have I entertained myself by 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.

Impurity

Did you intentionally use substances, practices, or objects to prevent pregnancy?

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

Did you use substances or objects to prevent pregnancy?

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

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

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

Have I dressed in a way that respects my dignity, taking into account how it may influence others?

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

Have I harbored any immodest thoughts 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.

Infidelity

Have I broken any vow of fidelity in my marriage through my deeds?

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

Have I broken my marriage vows through any actions that were contrary to our sacred covenant, even if done unintentionally?

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

Have I engaged in any non-procreative intimacy 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.

Did I engage in non-procreative sex outside the sacramental bond 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 intentionally caused pain, harm, or suffering to my loved ones, friends, or those in need?

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

Envy

Have I been discontent with what I have, especially in regards to my material possessions and status, and fixated on desiring what others possess?

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

Sorcery

Have you engaged in conversation with or consulted those who claim to have supernatural knowledge, such as fortune tellers, tarot card readers, or psychics?

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 way of life?

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

Did you persist in ignoring God's mercy without genuinely making an effort to change your ways, counting on divine forgiveness?

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

Did you deliberately count on God's mercy without making any effort to change your habits, expecting forgiveness for living life in a way that was contrary to your values and goals?

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 for too long, even though you knew you were in a state of sin, thereby showing contempt for God's mercy through the sacrament of reconciliation?

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

Did you put off going to confession while harboring doubts about your salvation, assuming you would have time later to reconcile with God?

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 I assume that my retirement years would be free from God's guidance, taking pride in relying solely on my own experiences and abilities?

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

Apostasy

Have you explicitly rejected the existence of God, either through personal doubts within yourself or by expressing such views to others in conversations or written reflections?

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 internally through private doubts or to others through public statements, while having been baptized?

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 in your thoughts, even if only occasionally or privately?

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 Most Blessed Sacrament during Masses, Eucharistic processions, or other solemn liturgical events where it is fitting?

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 when participating in Eucharistic celebrations, such as Mass or Adoration?

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

Did I fail to always show reverence for the Most Blessed Sacrament on holy days and other sacred occasions, especially during Mass when it is exposed and adored?

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

Did you deliberately choose to deprioritize and skip attending Mass on a Sunday or Holy Day of Obligation for non-serious reasons, showing a lack of reverence for God's commandment?

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.