Did I commit a mortal sin?

[catholiccj1086]

So before I went to my general confession I told my mom I was going to get food with a friend when in reality I went to confession. For some reason I do not like to tell people I am going to confession, I am a very private person even when my family (mom or dad) wants to know where I am going. So when I got back from confession I told my mom I just got back from eating w/ my buddy and checking out his new pond in his backyard… Did I commit a mortal sin by intentionally lying before I went into confession and then lying when I got home? Would This invalidate my entire general confession? I do not mean any harm towards them when lying about myself going to confession, its not like they would be mad or anything, they are Catholic.

 

[TheQuestioner]

Meh, in my opinion it’s not that big of a deal. Just don’t do it again. I also think the real problem is your pride. Have some humility, and admit that you are going to confession. Still though, in this instance I would say it’s not that big of a deal.

 

[Edmundus1581]

I understand your reluctance to tell your mum and dad that you are going to confession!

You have recognised that it’s sinful, but was it a mortal sin? Our common sense would say no.

CCC 2484 The gravity of a lie is measured against the nature of the truth it deforms, the circumstances, the intentions of the one who lies, and the harm suffered by its victims. To lie is to speak or act against the truth in order to lead someone into error.

On the circumstances, the intentions, and the harm, you are in the clear - no mortal sin. But what of the nature of the truth it deforms? IMHO, this is the only (potentially) serious matter here - you missed the opportunity to witness to your faith. When we say that we are going to confession, we are providing a witness, and a good example, and practising humility. But it’s still not a mortal sin.

Just for argument’s sake, imagine this - you are going to confession, but you lie about it, because you don’t want a sinner to see your good example, and go to confession too, and be saved. Now, that would be a mortal sin!

I would recommend that if you can’t bring yourself to say it when you leave, that you say nothing, or say “it’s private”. Your parents should be able to handle that. If that causes more problems than telling the truth, then tell the truth. If it’s still too hard, then find a time when you can go without your parents knowing, so that you won’t have to lie.

 

[spirocatania]

Just say that you are going to church.

if i was a parent and my son or daughter told me that they where going to confession i would be proud as punch because i world realize that i have bought up my kids the right way.