Sin

Sin is an offense against God — a deliberate thought, word, deed, or omission contrary to his eternal law. At its root it is a failure in genuine love for God and neighbor, a turning away from God toward self (CCC 1849, 1853).

What Makes Something a Sin

For an act to be sinful it must involve an evil object (the act itself must be disordered), knowledge (the person must know it is wrong), and free consent (the person must choose it freely). The more complete the knowledge and freedom, the more serious the moral responsibility (CCC 1857–1860).

Mortal Sin

Mortal sin involves grave matter, full knowledge, and deliberate consent. It destroys charity in the soul — severing friendship with God. If a person dies in unrepented mortal sin, the consequence is eternal separation from God. Sacramental absolution is required to restore the state of grace (CCC 1855–1861).

Venial Sin

Venial sin weakens but does not destroy charity. It involves less serious matter, or grave matter without full knowledge or complete consent. It is healed through prayer, acts of penance, and worthy reception of the Eucharist — though sacramental Confession is always encouraged (CCC 1862–1863).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a sin be forgiven outside of Confession? Perfect contrition — genuine sorrow motivated primarily by love of God — reconciles the sinner with God even before sacramental absolution, but the person remains bound to confess the mortal sin at the first opportunity (CCC 1452).

What is a sin of omission? A sin of omission is a failure to do something one was morally obliged to do — for example, failing to help someone in serious need when one easily could. Sins of omission are as real as sins of commission (CCC 1853).