Saints LightGuide
Examination of Conscience
An examination of conscience is an honest look at your life in the light of God's love, before Confession or at the end of a day. It is not a hunt for guilt. Go slowly, and stop where something stirs.
Love of God
- Have I made time for God in prayer? Have I put anything above Him: money, success, a person, my phone?
- Have I used God's name carelessly or in anger?
- Have I missed Mass on Sundays or Holy Days of Obligation through my own fault?
Love of neighbor
- Have I honored my parents, and cared for those who depend on me?
- Have I been angry, cruel, or held a grudge? Have I harmed my own body or anyone else's?
- Have I been faithful in my thoughts, words and actions, and respected the gift of sexuality?
- Have I stolen, cheated, or been careless with what belongs to others or to my employer?
- Have I lied, gossiped, or damaged someone's good name?
- Have I been envious, or let wanting more steal my peace?
Then
- Thank God for what went well. Ask forgiveness for what did not.
- Choose one concrete thing to change this week.
- If you found a serious sin, go to Confession soon. Until then, pray an Act of Contrition and trust God's mercy.
Your next step
Other guides
- How to learn with Saints Light
- How to go to Confession
- Going to Mass for the first time
- How to pray the Rosary
- How to start reading the Bible
- Becoming Catholic, or coming home
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