A Catholic Examination of Conscience

Senior, Single 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

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Disobedience

Was I disobedient to my parents by failing to respect their authority?

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 others who disagreed with your views?

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 my frustrations with individual members led me to focus more on their imperfections than the Church'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 you reject the unity of Christ's Church when feeling frustrated or disappointed with your community, church members, or leaders?

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 skipped any prescribed days of fasting, such as Ash Wednesday?

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

Did I speak words that belittled 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 dishonored my mother through my actions and attitudes by showing disrespect towards her wisdom, experience, or parenting style?

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 words and actions by refusing to show them respect in our family gatherings and conversations?

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 shown disrespect to those who have given me life, nurtured me, and helped form 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

Did you tell fellow Catholics that it was okay to stay away from receiving Sacraments or attending 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 discourage other Catholics from participating in the 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 you ever discourage fellow Catholics from attending Mass or receiving Sacraments?

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

Did I neglect to guide my child in making decisions, allowing them to continue in error by avoiding difficult conversations?

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 you fail to speak up in defense of your child's well-being, out of fear of uncomfortable conversations?

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

Did I condone a funeral where human remains were not given proper burial?

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

Did I permit my child to be exposed to harmful influences that could damage 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 my approval by word to another Catholic for their decision 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.

Did I, through my words, give approval to a fellow Catholic that they should marry 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.

Uncharity

Have I turned away from strangers and those who are displaced, showing little concern for their plight?

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 in need, especially strangers and displaced individuals?

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, treating them with disdain in my thoughts?

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? Considering this sin dehumanizes people when we are called to love each other as a child of God as Jesus loved us.

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 condescend to others based on their job, nationality, or other trait?

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

Did I put my own interests before considering the needs of others in our community?

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

Did I allow my own needs, comforts, and desires to take precedence over the well-being, interests, and needs of those around me?

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

Did I let my own desires for comfort, leisure, and social activities overshadow the needs and well-being of those around me?

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

Did I lose my patience with others, particularly in situations where I feel frustrated or misunderstood?

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

Did I permit someone to be treated unfairly?

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

Did I permit someone to be treated unjustly?

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 allow someone to be treated unjustly?

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 helped others when they needed help, especially in times of difficulty or hardship?

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 my life, such as friends, neighbors, or fellow community members, who may be struggling or in need?

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

Have I shown compassion and practical assistance to those in need, especially during times of hardship or crisis, and been mindful of how my actions may impact their well-being?

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.

Merciless

Have I condemned others through my words?

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

Have I unjustly condemned others through my words?

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

Callousness

Did I fail to come to the aid of someone suffering when they were in need of my assistance?

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

Did I fail to provide sufficient assistance when someone in our community was struggling, despite having the resources and opportunity to help?

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

Did I fail to provide aid to someone in need when they were suffering, despite having 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 I turn away from someone who was ill in need of my care?

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 fail to show compassion and care for someone who was ill in my community?

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

Sloth

Did I neglect those who were in need of my help?

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

Have I neglected to regularly share my faith experiences and values with my child, potentially hindering their growth in 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.

In what ways have I put my own interests ahead of my family's genuine needs and wellbeing, leading me to neglect their needs in favor of personal pursuits?

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, thereby neglecting their reliance on me for care and support?

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 their genuine needs and wellbeing?

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

Did I omit the opportunity to provide my child with religious instruction?

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.

Have I sufficiently provided for my child's spiritual growth, particularly in their education?

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 during this season of life, when God's presence and guidance are especially comforting?

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 deprioritize your commitment to attending Mass on Sundays or Holy Days of Obligation, choosing instead to pursue other 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.

Did you deprioritize and skip Mass on a Sunday or Holy Day of Obligation, preferring instead to pursue leisure activities that did not involve worshiping God?

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

Did I deprioritize my weekly Mass attendance on Sundays, choosing to skip it for non-serious reasons?

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

Vainglory

Did I seek to be admired for giving alms through social media?

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

Am I more focused on defending my reputation among friends, acquaintances, and community members 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 own reputation among friends, family, 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 recognition from others through my accomplishments, hobbies, and interests than pleasing God?

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

Did you publicly distance yourself from your faith when faced with social pressure or discomfort?

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

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

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

Theft

Did I intentionally omit to pay my debts?

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

Did you intentionally fail to pay your debts, causing harm to others through an omission that violates the principle of justice?

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 you help others steal by allowing them to take something that did not belong to them, even if it was not directly through your own hands?

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

Did I assist others in taking 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 assist others in acquiring 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.

Have I stolen anything that doesn't belong to me, regardless of its value, through any means or in any context?

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 doing something to others by failing to pay them a just price or wage?

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, through my deeds, fail to pay others a fair price or wage?

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.

Have I avoided paying others a fair price or wage in my business dealings, such as when buying or selling goods?

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

False Witness

Did I deceive others in order to gain an advantage?

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

Did I intentionally deceive others through my words to gain an advantage for myself?

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 use my words to deceive others and 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 deceive others through my words or actions, perhaps by withholding information or distorting the truth?

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 through my conversations at community events, gatherings, or social engagements?

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

Have I deliberately exaggerated, misrepresented the truth, or lied about others in social situations, such as sharing stories of family history, events at church gatherings, or local community activities?

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

Have I deliberately exaggerated, misrepresented the truth, or lied about others in my daily interactions, whether online or offline?

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

Resent

Have I become sterilized?

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

Do I seek to feel resentful when others succeed, perhaps even envying their accomplishments?

Preventing others' success is sinful because it's the resentful desire to deprive others of their blessings because their achievements make us feel inferior or threatened in comparison.

Did I harbor any resentment in my thoughts towards others who have wronged me?

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

Have I harbored any resentment towards those who have wronged me, fostering unhealthy thoughts that cloud my ability to love them in accordance with Christ's teachings?

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 refuse to pardon someone who wronged me through my words?

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 hold resentment towards someone who wronged me, manifesting in hurtful words?

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

Did I, through thoughtless consideration or deliberate rejection, abandon my 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.

Did I harbor doubts about my faith for any length of time, even in secret?

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 you fear to share the good news about Jesus' teachings, especially among your friends and acquaintances?

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

Do I hold back from sharing my faith with others out of fear to say the name of Jesus?

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 gain approval from those around me, 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.

Retaliation

Do you entertain thoughts of personal 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.

Imprudence

Have I wasted time that could have been used for prayer, spiritual growth, or service to others on meaningless distractions?

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

Sensuality

Did I prioritize worldly experiences over spiritual growth?

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

Did I desire worldly pleasures over growth in faith, even when engaging in enjoyable activities such as gardening, woodworking, or travel?

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 deliberately 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 you deliberately use controlled substances to escape 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 use controlled substances to impair 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 prioritize my own pleasures over my relationship with God, especially in moments when I am seeking comfort or relaxation?

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 put my own desires for leisure activities above my relationship with God?

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

Do you give precedence to your own sensual desires over 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.

Scandal

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

Have I encouraged someone else to engage in sinful behavior through my actions?

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

Did you try to lead someone else into sin, perhaps by sharing your own sinful desires or temptations?

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.

Have I received Holy Communion while knowingly in a state of sin, causing harm to myself and potentially scandalizing others through my actions?

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.

Impenitence

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

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

Have I refused to acknowledge my wrongdoing, clinging to it instead of turning back to God's mercy?

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

Anger

Did I permit my child to be exposed to bad influences, thereby endangering their faith and potentially leading 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.

Have I nursed anger or held onto feelings of rage rather than seeking reconciliation with those I have wronged in my community, especially in times of disagreement over local issues or events?

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

Have I nursed anger towards my loved ones, family members, or close friends rather than seeking reconciliation and forgiveness?

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

Blasphemy

Did I use God's holy name to swear at or in anger?

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

Have you sworn to God?

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

Did you receive Holy Communion while knowingly being in a state of unrepentant sin?

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

Did I receive Holy Communion at Mass while knowingly in a state of serious sin, such as having unrepented grave faults or lacking proper detachment from worldly things?

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 used the name of God as a curse or blasphemy 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 a careless or irreverent manner, such as using it as an exclamation, curse, or thoughtless expression?

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

Have I ever used the name of God, Jesus, or any sacred title as a curse or an expletive in conversation?

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

Ambition

Did I allow my desire for power and dominance to influence how I lead, guide, and make decisions for others?

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

Did I allow my desire for power and dominance to influence how I interacted with others, especially in community events or local gatherings where I have a position of authority?

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 personal interests and hobbies, such as gardening or woodworking, sometimes influence me to prioritize my own desires over what is best for 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.

Have I entertained inappropriate feelings toward someone else's spouse in situations where we have been alone together, perhaps due to a long-standing friendship 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.

Greed

Did I make accumulating wealth and material possessions my driving force in life?

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

Did I make accumulating wealth and possessions, in this case possibly through hobbies like gardening or woodworking, or investments 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 I, through my words or actions, mistreat others?

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

Have I mistreated others, treating them unjustly through my deeds?

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

Lust

Did I reduce others to their usefulness for me, rather than seeing them in their full humanity?

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

Did I reduce others to their utility or usefulness, rather than seeing them in their full humanity?

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 see others primarily in terms of what they could offer me, such as companionship, assistance, or emotional support, rather than valuing their inherent dignity and humanity?

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 engaged in actual or simulated sexual acts outside of marriage through my words, actions, or gestures that have been intentionally provocative or suggestive?

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 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 engaged in simulated or actual acts of lust outside the bonds of marriage through any kind of intimate or sensual behavior?

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

Did you allow yourself to engage in lustful thoughts when interacting with pornography?

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

Have you had thoughts that involved interacting with pornography?

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

Autonomy

Did I take for granted the good things in my life, forgetting to acknowledge their source in God's providence?

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

Did I take for granted the good things in my life, thinking they were solely due to my own efforts rather than God's providence?

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

Have I questioned the reality of my own existence?

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

Did you trust solely in your own abilities and neglect to acknowledge your complete dependence on God's grace, especially in times of stress or uncertainty?

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

Have I relied solely on my own abilities in my gardening and woodworking projects, neglecting to acknowledge and depend on God's grace in their completion?

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 trust solely in your own abilities, failing to acknowledge God's guidance and support?

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

Envy

Have I ever felt jealous of others' blessings, perhaps thinking they shouldn't have 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 secretly wished others would struggle in areas where they excel, perhaps feeling envious of their success?

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

Have I secretly envied others' successes and felt unhappy for 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 fixated on coveting others' possessions, especially in situations where I feel discontent with what I have?

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

Have I been discontent with what God has given me, fixating on coveting others' possessions?

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

Incontinence

Did I lack self-control and speak to others with vulgar or inappropriate language when engaging in conversations about my favorite hobbies, interests, or experiences?

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

Did you lack self-control in your conversations, speaking to others with words that were coarse or unbecoming?

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's reasonable, especially during times of leisure such as travel or social gatherings?

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

Did you overindulge in eating or drinking beyond what's reasonable, perhaps during social gatherings or when trying new foods?

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 it comes to enjoying meals with friends and family at social gatherings?

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

Prodigality

Have I recklessly prioritized recreational activities over meeting my financial responsibilities, potentially straining my ability to provide for family needs?

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

Gossip

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

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

Have I indulged in discussing others' shortcomings or private matters, 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 ever entertained myself at the expense of sharing others' private affairs, even if what I shared was true?

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

Impiety

Did I cause unnecessary hardship to others by my actions on Sundays when rest was otherwise available?

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 you failed to show reverence for the Most Blessed Sacrament in your daily devotions and spiritual practices?

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

Have you failed to always show reverence for Most Blessed Sacrament in your daily life, especially during personal devotions or community celebrations?

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 Most Blessed Sacrament during periods of personal or family gatherings, special events, or quiet moments in your daily life?

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

Impurity

Have you used practices, substances, or objects to intentionally prevent pregnancy?

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

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

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 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, especially during times when I may be among others?

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

Infidelity

Have I broken my marriage 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.

Have I broken any vows made in my marriage?

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

Fornication

Did I have any non-procreative sex through unwedded relationships?

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

Have I engaged in any non-procreative sex while single?

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

Violence

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

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

Have I knowingly acted in ways that intentionally caused pain or suffering to others?

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

Have I deliberately caused pain or suffering to someone through my actions?

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

Lukewarmness

Have I been unmotivated or halfhearted in my commitment to loving and serving God, particularly in times of leisure or when faced with competing priorities?

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

Have I been unmotivated or halfhearted in my prayer life, reflecting on God's love for me through Scripture and contemplation?

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

Murder

Have you ever participated in an abortion? Did you intentionally take someone's life by participating in euthanasia? Were you involved in deeds that resulted in the intentional taking of another person's life through abortion or euthanasia?

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.

Sorcery

Have I interacted with mediums, fortune tellers, tarot card readers, or Ouija boards in any setting, including private gatherings, community events, or online platforms?

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

Have I, through words, 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.

Have you ever interacted with individuals claiming to possess supernatural knowledge through means forbidden by God, such as mediums, fortune tellers, tarot card readers, or Ouija boards?

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

Presumption

Have you deliberately persisted in sinful behavior, counting on God's mercy without making any effort to change while in your retirement years or pursuing new hobbies and interests?

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 deliberately persisted in assuming God's mercy without making genuine effort to change your sinful ways, showing disrespect for His justice and mercy?

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 deliberately persisted in taking God's mercy for granted without making any effort to change, counting on His forgiveness despite living a life that does not reflect a genuine desire for holiness?

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 delay going to confession while in a state of sin, recklessly endangering your own salvation?

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

Did you delay going to confession, while in a state of sin, by failing to make time for it?

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

Apostasy

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

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

Have you ever explicitly rejected the existence of God, either internally through doubts about your faith, or to others by sharing your unbelief?

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 unbelief or to others through spoken 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.