GROW IN FAITH 20 – Examination of Conscience

Looking Honestly at Our Day

Opening Prayer

Lord,
You see everything clearly.
Help us look at our day honestly.
Give us courage to see what is good
and what needs to change.
Amen.

Part One

Why We Look Back

At the end of each day,
many things have happened.

We have spoken words.
We have made choices.
We have helped others.
We have made mistakes.

If we never pause,
we may not notice how we are growing —
or where we need help.

The Bible says:

“Let someone prove their own work.”

An examination of conscience
is simply looking at our actions
in the light of God.

It is not meant to frighten us.

It is meant to help us grow.

Scripture

“Let someone prove their own work.”
(Galatians 6:4)

Think and Discuss

Why might it be helpful to look back on our day?

Is it easy or hard to admit mistakes?

What happens if we ignore small wrong choices?

How could this help us grow stronger?

Allow time for honest reflection.

Part Two

What We Look For

An examination of conscience includes two things:

Gratitude
and honesty.

First, we thank God for what was good.

Where did I show kindness?
When did I try to do what was right?

Then we look at where we fell short.

Was I impatient?
Did I speak unkindly?
Did I ignore someone who needed help?

We do not examine our conscience
to feel shame.

We do it to stay close to God.

God already knows our weaknesses.

He invites us to bring them into the light.

Guidance for Adults

Keep the tone peaceful and steady.
Avoid long or heavy questioning.
Short, consistent reflection forms the heart more deeply than intensity.

Part Three

A Simple Way to Do It

At the end of the day,

Pause.

Be quiet for a moment.

Then ask yourself:

What am I thankful for today?

Where did I choose what was good?

Where did I choose poorly?

Then say:

“Lord, thank You.”
“Lord, forgive me.”
“Lord, help me tomorrow.”

That is enough.

If we practise this regularly,

We grow in awareness.
We grow in humility.
We grow in responsibility.

And when we go to Confession,
we are already prepared.

Examination of conscience
keeps the heart awake.

Quiet Reflection

Sit quietly for a moment.

Think of one good choice you made today.

Now think of one choice you wish you could change.

Say quietly:

“Thank You, Lord.”
“Forgive me, Lord.”

Remain in silence together.

Practise This Week

Choose one:

• Spend two minutes each evening reviewing your day.
• Thank God for one good choice each night.
• Say sorry quickly when you recognise a mistake.
• Prepare for Sunday by reflecting quietly on your week.

Choose one and keep it steady.

Optional Response

Choose one:

Memory
Repeat slowly:
“Lord, help me tomorrow.”
Say it three times thoughtfully.

Action
Make the Sign of the Cross slowly before bed
and offer your day to God.

Closing Prayer

Lord,
Keep our hearts honest and peaceful.
Help us see clearly,
repent quickly,
and grow steadily in goodness.
Amen.