Preparing for the Sacrament of Reconciliation is essential at the high school level. It is an excellent opportunity to catechize young people through an examination of conscience. You don't want to have students waiting in line for the Sacrament of Reconciliation thinking things like this student (from Outside da Box Productions and the Jesus Christ Video Collection).
Traditionally, reception of the Sacrament of Reconciliation "ought to be prepared for by an examination of conscience made in the light o the Word of God" (CCC, 1454). Typically the Decalogue, the Ten Commandments, are the focus of this examination of conscience. Giving students the time to reflect on their sins either in class or during a school assembly can make an important impact on a student's decision to receive the Sacrament and to enter into it with a contrite heart.
Examination of Conscience for Teens Handouts
Each examination of conscience below is designed around the Ten Commandments:
-
You can also find a very simple examination of conscience for teens handout in the resources section the Meeting Jesus in the Sacraments textbook (Examination of Conscience Handout).
New App for Students with iPads, iPhones, and iPod Touches
There is a new App available that has been getting a lot of buzz lately. It is called Confession: A Roman Catholic App. The app is actually an in-depth examination of conscience that is great for tech-savvy teenagers. Contact the creators at Little iApps for a special bulk price for schools.
