Catholic Student Center at USF

When preparing to ask God's forgiveness in the Sacrament of Reconciliation, one must first examine one's conscience. Pray for the help of the Holy Spirit in determining personal sins and areas of unforgiveness in one's life.

I. Listen to God speak through the Scriptures.

God instructs us through the wisdom of the Old Testament, "Do to no one what you yourself dislike. Do not drink to excess or let drunkenness become a habit. Give to the hungry some of your bread, and to the naked some of your clothing. Whatever you have beyond your own needs, distribute in alms; do not give grudgingly.(Tobit 4: 15-16)

Jesus gives us his two great commandments by which to live our lives. "Love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul and with all your mind. . . Love you neighbor as yourself."(Matthew 22:37-39)

II. Listen to God speak to your conscience.

1. Is my heart set on God? Do I really love God above all else and am I faithful to God's commandments? Do I let things like money, prestige, status or any other personal considerations take precedence over my love and reverence for God?

2. Do I make an effort to grow in my relationship with Jesus Christ? Do I pray daily and read the Scriptures, especially the Gospels, in order to become a more faithful disciple of Jesus? Do I study and attempt to grow in my understanding of my Catholic faith?

3. Do I keep God's day holy by participating actively and consciously in Sunday Liturgy? Do I participate in the Sacrament of Reconciliation and least once a year?

4. Am I always loving and faithful and forgiving in my relationships, especially with family members?

5. Is my life guided by Catholic values? Do I always respect the dignity of others and of God's creation? Do I treat people with love, care, compassion, honesty? Do I respect myself: my body and spirit, as a temple of the Holy Spirit?

6. Do I take seriously my responsibility to care for those less fortunate than I am? Do I practice responsible stewardship of my time, talent and treasure in support of the Church's mission? Do I stand up for justice for the victims of oppression, discrimination and poverty?

7. Do I give witness to my Catholic faith in my workplace and in the community? Are my daily decisions in my work and relationships guided by Catholic moral principles?

8. Do I readily forgive those who offend me, and work for peace in my relationships and in my world?