Examination on the Precepts of the Church
HAVE you gone to confession at least once a year? Received holy communion during Easter time? Have you violated the fasts of the Church, or eaten flesh meat on prohibited days?
Have you sinned against any other commandment of the Church?
Examine yourself also in regard to the Seven Capital Sins and the nine ways of being accessory to another's sin.
After the Examination
Having discovered the sins of which you have been guilty, together with their number, enormity, or such circumstances as may change their nature, you should endeavor to excite in yourself a heartfelt sorrow for having committed them, and a sincere detestation of them. This being the most essential of all the dispositions requisite for a good confession, with what humility, fervor, and perseverance should you not importune Him Who holds the hearts of men in His hands to grant it to you!
CONSIDERATIONS TO EXCITE IN OUR HEART TRUE CONTRITION FOR OUR SINS
Consider Who He is, and how good and gracious He is to you, Whom you have so often and so deeply offended by these sins. He made you — He made you for Himself, to know, love, and serve Him, and to be happy with Him forever. He redeemed you by His blood. He has borne with you and waited for you so long. He it is Who has called you and moved you
