An important examination

This week it seems that many parishes are offering Penance Services in preparation for Easter. So I am sharing with you the examination of conscience that we received several years ago when we made a pilgrimage to the Shrine of Our Lady in Lourdes, France. Perhaps it will be helpful to you.

Who is God for me? Does He have the most important place in my life? Am I open to His presence? * Do I listen to the words of the Gospel? What place has prayer in my life? Is the Eucharist at the center of my Christian life? * Do I allow the Lord to be the Lord, or do I try to be the Lord myself? Do I cling to my will, my wants, my ways? * Do I seek the wellbeing of others? Am I selfish? Am I proud? Am I jealous? Do I dislike or hate someone? * Am I bitter or resentful in my relationships? Do I treat my family with love and care? Do I love and respect enough my wife, my husband, my children? * Do I think enough of those who are less fortunate? Am I just a spectator before people’s problems, or do I help? Do I share what I have with others? * Do I despise those of another creed, colour or opinion? Am I respectful of other people’s property? Have I abused someone’s property or stolen or coveted another’s goods? * Do I judge my neighbor? Do I bear false witness? Do I sin against purity in mind or action? Have I used another person for my own pleasure? Do I forgive those who sin against me? * Do I appreciate the gift of life God has given to me? Do I use the gift of time well? Am I able to forgive myself? What are the priorities in my life?

ACT OF CONTRITION: Oh my God, I thank you for loving me. I am sorry for all my sins, for not loving others and not loving you. Help me to live like Jesus and not sin again. Amen.

Here is a link to an excellent article on Confession: http://www.catholic.org/hf/faith/story.php?id=41048