Formation Of A Correct Conscience

Speaking out of the dignity of human beings, Vatican II says," In the depths of his conscience, man detects a law which he does not impose upon himself, but which holds him to obedience. Always summoning him to love good and avoid evil, the voice of conscience can when necessary speak to his heart more specifically : do this, shun that. For man has in his heart a law written by God. To obey it is the very dignity of man; according to it he will be judged. Conscience is the most secret core and sanctuary of a man. There he is alone with God, whose voice echoes in his depth." 

We are all morally bound to follow our conscience. But this does not mean that what our conscience tells us is infallible correct. As Vatican II says, " Conscience frequently errs from invincible ignorance", that is , from ignorance for which a person is not morally responsible.Seeking a correct conscience is part of our dignity and responsiblity. 

Speaking of a correct conscience, Vatican II states,"Hence the more that a correct conscience holds sway, the more persons and groups turn aside from blind choice and strive to be guided by objective norms of morality". 

Regarding the crucial matter of how to develop a right conscience, the Council says: "In formation of their consciences, the Christian faithful ought carefully to attend to the sacred and certain doctrine of the Church. The Church is, by the will of Christ, the teacher of the truth. It is her duty to give utterance to, and authoritatively to teach, that Truth which is Christ Himself, and also to declare and confirm by her authority those principles of the moral order which have their origin in human nature itself". 

In personal matters of conscience, "carefully attend to the sacred and certain doctrine of the Church." Then, in "the most secret core and sancturay" of your heart where you are "alone with God", seek his will. Seek and you will find.