Finding Your Way Back

A Guide to Examination of Conscience

In our busy, constantly connected lives, it can be challenging to step back and truly reflect on our actions, thoughts, and the state of our spiritual journey. Yet, this reflection—known as an examination of conscience—is a crucial step in preparing for confession and growing in your faith. This guide offers a practical approach specifically designed for young adults navigating today’s world.

What Is an Examination of Conscience?

An examination of conscience is a prayerful self-reflection on your actions in light of the teachings of Christ and the Church. It’s not meant to be a guilt trip but rather an honest assessment that leads to healing and growth. Think of it as a spiritual check-up that helps identify areas where you’ve strayed from God’s love and where you can grow closer to Him.

Setting the Stage

Before diving into specific questions, create the right environment for reflection:

  1. Find a quiet space where you won’t be interrupted or distracted
  2. Set aside dedicated time (15-30 minutes is ideal)
  3. Put away your phone or switch it to “do not disturb”
  4. Begin with prayer, asking the Holy Spirit to guide your reflection

A Framework for Modern Young Adults

Rather than using a one-size-fits-all list of questions, consider organising your examination around the relationships in your life:

1. Your Relationship with God

  • Have I made time for prayer and spiritual growth?
  • Do I attend Mass regularly, or do I find excuses to skip it?
  • Have I been respectful of God’s name, or do I use it carelessly?
  • Have I sought to deepen my understanding of my faith?
  • Do I trust God during difficult times, or do I blame Him?

2. Your Relationship with Others

  • Have I been honest in my interactions with family, friends, and colleagues?
  • Do I speak charitably about others, or do I participate in gossip or cruel jokes?
  • Have I respected others’ boundaries and dignity?
  • How do I treat people on social media? Am I the same person online as I am in person?
  • Have I been generous with my time and resources to those in need?
  • Have I treated others with respect regardless of our differences?

3. Your Relationship with Yourself

  • Do I respect my body as a temple of the Holy Spirit?
  • Have I been honest with myself about my motivations and actions?
  • Do I practice moderation in food, drink, entertainment, and social media?
  • Have I fallen into patterns that harm my physical, mental, or spiritual health?
  • Am I cultivating virtues or giving in to vices?

4. Digital Life and Modern Challenges

  • How am I using my time online? Does it draw me closer to or further from God?
  • Have I viewed content that objectifies others or contradicts my values?
  • Do I present an authentic self online, or am I living a double life?
  • Have I been honest in my work, studies, and financial dealings?
  • Have I respected intellectual property and digital ethics?

Practical Tips for a Meaningful Examination

The Gradual Approach

Don’t feel you need to address everything at once. Consider focusing on one area each day leading up to confession:

  • Monday: Relationship with God
  • Tuesday: Family relationships
  • Wednesday: Friendships and romantic relationships
  • Thursday: Work/school relationships
  • Friday: Digital life and modern challenges

Journaling Method

Some find it helpful to journal their examination. This can be especially useful if you struggle with distractions or forgetfulness. Write down your reflections and the sins you need to confess, then destroy the paper afterward for privacy.

Scripture-Based Reflection

Use passages like the Beatitudes (Matthew 5:3-12), the Fruits of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-26), or the Ten Commandments as a framework for your examination.

Guided Audio Reflection

If you find it difficult to focus, try using a guided audio examination of conscience designed for young adults (many are available as podcasts or apps).

Moving Forward: From Examination to Confession

After your examination:

  1. Make a list of the sins you need to confess (you can destroy it afterward)
  2. Consider their gravity (mortal or venial) and approximate frequency
  3. Pray for contrition – genuine sorrow for your sins because they offend God, not just because of their consequences
  4. Formulate a plan for avoiding these sins in the future
  5. Approach confession with humility and openness

Remember: It’s About Healing, Not Shame

The examination of conscience isn’t meant to make you feel terrible about yourself. It’s a loving invitation from God to healing and growth. As Pope Francis reminds us, “God never tires of forgiving us; we are the ones who tire of seeking His mercy.”

Your honest self-reflection demonstrates courage and a desire to grow in your relationship with God. The very act of examining your conscience is already a step toward reconciliation and renewal.

Conclusion

As young adults, we face unique challenges in today’s world. An examination of conscience that addresses both timeless human struggles and modern-day temptations helps us navigate our faith journey with authenticity and purpose. Remember that this process isn’t about perfection—it’s about progress and the beautiful opportunity to begin again, embraced by God’s endless mercy.