FAITH OF ROMAN CATHOLIC CHURCH

By Edward Matulanya  Here are meaning, nature, history, characteristics and theological significance of venial sin. Meaning and Nature of Venial sin Venial sin is a concept in Roman Catholic moral theology that refers to a lesser sin that weakens, but does not destroy a person’s relationship with God. Unlike mortal sin , which constitutes a grave matter, is committed with full knowledge and deliberate consent, and results in the loss of sanctifying grace , venial sin does not completely sever the soul from God’s grace . Venial sin hinders spiritual growth and the ability to achieve perfect charity, but it remains remediable through repentance, prayer, and the sacraments (Catechism of the Catholic Church [CCC], 1993/2020, §§1862-1864). Historical Development of Venial sin The distinction between mortal and venial sin has its roots in early Christian theology: 1. Patristic Period Early Church Fathers, such as Augustine of Hippo (354–430), articulated the idea of sins differing in s...