He Leadeth Me Finding Freedom From Scrupulosity
Sep 25, 2025
Fr. Denis Nakkeeran, a moral theologian and Dean of Men at St. John’s Seminary, sheds light on scrupulosity, a spiritual distortion affecting many, especially young Catholics. He explains its roots in anxiety and perfectionism and how it warps one’s view of God from loving Father to an authoritarian figure. Fr. Denis offers guidance for confessors and companions, emphasizing the importance of addressing underlying beliefs. He also provides practical tips for those struggling, advocating for trust in spiritual direction and embracing the journey of faith with grace.
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Recent Rise In Scrupulosity
- Fr. Denis notes many seminarians now arrive with strong devotion paired with scrupulosity.
- He links this rise to COVID, the digital age, and increased anxiety and perfectionism in younger generations.
Pebble-In-The-Shoe Definition
- Scrupulosity is like a tiny pebble in your shoe that causes disproportionate pain and worry.
- People with scrupulosity fear sin where none exists or magnify minor faults without rational basis.
Distorted Image Of God
- Scrupulosity distorts God from a loving Father into a harsh parole officer who watches every action.
- This also warps self-image into one of guilt, performance, and constant fear of condemnation.