Examination of Conscience

The examination of conscience is a fundamental step before confession. It consists of a sincere reflection on our thoughts, words, actions, and omissions, analyzing how we have lived in light of God's commandments and the teachings of the Church.

1. What is the Examination of Conscience?

It is an internal review done with honesty and humility, recognizing the sins committed. It is a moment of self-knowledge and openness to God's grace, which helps us in the search for conversion.

2. How to do a good Examination of Conscience?

To make this moment fruitful, follow these steps:

Set aside a time of silence and prayer.
Place yourself in God's presence and ask for the illumination of the Holy Spirit.
Reflect on your life since the last confession.
Examine your conduct in light of the Ten Commandments and the teachings of the Church.
Sincerely acknowledge your sins and truly repent.
Make a firm resolution to change and ask God for strength to avoid the same mistakes.

3. Examination of Conscience Questionnaire

To assist in the examination, use a detailed questionnaire, which presents questions that help identify faults and sins, divided into categories:

Sins against God: Lack of faith, blasphemies, neglect in prayer.
Sins against others: Lack of charity, judgments, defamation.
Sins against oneself: Pride, laziness, gluttony, impurity.
The seven capital sins: Pride, greed, envy, wrath, lust, gluttony, and sloth.

4. Prayer for a Good Examination of Conscience

"Lord my God, enlighten me so that I may see my sins clearly and recognize them with humility. Give me a repentant heart and a sincere desire for conversion. Amen."

A well-done examination of conscience leads us to a more sincere and fruitful confession, preparing us to receive God's forgiveness with joy.

Examination of conscience by the Ten Commandments

A classic Catholic approach is to review your life in light of the commandments. Use these prompts with our interactive questionnaire:

Love God above all things.
Do not take the Lord's name in vain.
Keep the Lord's Day holy.
Honor father and mother.
Do not kill.
Live chastely.
Do not steal.
Speak the truth.
Desire the good of others.

Frequently asked questions

What is an examination of conscience?

A sincere review of thoughts, words, deeds and omissions in light of Catholic faith to prepare for confession.

How often should I do it?

Before each confession and ideally at the end of each day.

How does the questionnaire help?

It organizes checklists by topic and lets you generate a summary for confession.