Basic Catholic Q and A's

The numbers in parenthese that follow the questions refer to related paragraphs in the Catechism of the Catholic Church.

How is an examination of conscience made?

An examination of conscience is made by recalling how one has lived up to one's commitment to Christ in thoughts, words and actions, as well as how one's duties were accomplished. As a help, the ten commandments can be recalled one by one, as well as the special duties of Catholic Christians and one's own particular duties. (1454)

In addition, some questions like the following will help us:

What is my attitude toward the sacrament of God's mercy, the sacrament of Penance and Reconciliation?

Do I want my sins forgiven, so that I can begin a new life and deepen my friendship with God?

Did I deliberately conceal serious sins in past confessions through fear or shame? If so, now I want to tell them sincerely, trusting that God will forgive me as he forgave the prodigal son.

Did I perform the penance I was given during my last confession? Did I make up for any injuries I caused others?

Have I really been trying to become a better Catholic, the way the Gospel teaches?

How Much Do I Love God?

Do I love God and show it by obeying the Ten Commandments?

Do I think about pleasing God, and try to live every day as well as I can?

Do I believe in God and trust him?

Do I accept what the Catholic Church teaches?

Do I try to grow in knowledge and love of my Catholic faith?

Am I courageous in professing my faith in God and the Church?

Am I happy to be a Catholic, willing to be known as one?

Do I turn to God often during the day, especially when I am tempted?

Do I love and reverence God's name? Did I ever take his name in vain?

Did I blaspheme or swear falsely?

Did I show disrespect for our Lady and the saints?

Do I participate at Mass with attention and devotion on Sundays and holy days?

Have I fulfilled the precept of Communion during the Easter Season?

Are there "false gods" in my life-money, clothes, superstition, desire for popularity-that actually mean more to me than God does?

How Much Do I Love My Neighbor?

Do I really love my neighbor, or do I use people for my own ends? Do I do to them what I would not want done to myself?

Have I given bad example by my words or actions?

Do I contribute to the happiness of every member of my family?

Am I loving and respectful to my parents, my spouse, my children?

If I am permitted, am I willing to share my possessions with those who have less, or do I look down on them?

Do I share in the apostolic and charitable works of my parish?

Do I pray for the needs of the Church and the world?

Am I hardworking and conscientious in fulfilling my duties?

Am I truthful and fair? Did I ever damage another's good name?

Have I ever damaged another person's property or possessions? Have I stolen?

Have I quarreled? Insulted others?

Do I harbor hatred and a thirst for revenge?

How Is My Personal Growth in the Christian Life?

Do I think about heaven and hope for eternal life with God?

Do I pray often? Do I read God's Word, the Bible, and reflect on it?

Do I receive the sacraments of Penance and Holy Eucharist regularly?

Am I pure in my thoughts, words, desires, actions?

Do I keep away from indecent literature, movies or other forms of entertainment that do not respect God's gift of sexuality?

Do I know how to give of myself for others?

Do I try to grow spiritually? Can I look at myself honestly to see where I can grow?

Am I lazy? Do I waste a lot of time?

Do I use my talents and time to help others know Jesus?

Previous Part of the Sacrament of Healing

Contents page