Mortal And Venial Sin

[Chanman450]

What are some effective and practical ways I can distinguish between venial and mortal sin?

And here's a situation I have a question about. Ok let's say Jim and Bob are hanging out. Jim says "Man, did you see that girl? I'd like to *beep* her." When Bob hears this, for a second or two he imagines what it would be like to do that to her, but then he stops himself. Would Bob be in mortal sin for that? What about venial?

Also, is it a venial or mortal sin to laugh at a bad joke (a racist joke, a sexual joke, etc.) said by another person?

Thanks for this forum! It's a valuable resource.

Edited May 29, 2004 by Chanman450

[Pontifex]

I always try to explain the mortal and venial sin question to people by using the analogy of a relatiship. When you are in a friendship, dating relationship, etc with someone there are things that you can do that hurt or strain the relationship that do not break it or require formal reconciliation. (You are impatient with someone, you comment on their ugly dress, etc.) However there are things that we can do that break relationship and that require formal reconciliation. (Adultery, abuse, etc.)

A mortal sin breaks our relationship with God. By definition a mortal sin is one that is grave (serious) in nature, done with full knowledge of the gravity, and done with full control of the will.

In your hypothetical situation, when a fleeting thought comes to your mind that is sexual in nature there is no sin involved in that. However, if you were to dwell upon that thought for an extended period of time knowing that it is serious matter then you would be in need of confession. Also please keep in mind that there is a difference between a sexual thought of admiration, (Wow, she is nice looking!) and a thought of lust, (Gee, I wonder what it would be like to have sex with so and so). The first is a normal and healthy response the second is sinful.

The best thing you can do is talk to your friend about his comments and that they are potentially leading you to sin. If he doesn't want to hear that, than he probably isn't a friend to begin with. Surround yourself with people who share your values. (Iron sharpens Iron)

Fr. Pontifex