Failure to act= mortal sin for parent?

[catholiclady11]

Someone was playing a song and it took our Lord’s holy name in vain several times (using it in a very casual/carless manner). My elementary son was there and I left the room for a moment- I was afraid to ask the adult to turn off the music because I thought he would be angry. After a few minutes I came back into the room to ask him not to play any songs which would use God’s name.

I know that it was very bad for me to be so cowardly and not immediately ask him to turn it off or tell my son to leave the room. Do you think that this sin would be considered mortal or it is ok to receive the Eucharist before going to confession?

 

[EasterJoy]

I don’t think the gravity of the matter rises to a mortal sin, and certainly not for the witness of the abuse of the Lord’s name instead of the perpetrator. A great many people have never been taught that this is even a moral offense, on top of that, and in fact have been taught that there is something controlling and repressed about people who would believe that it is. Other people listen so much to the melody of music that they put very little thought into the lyrics. The “artist” could sing anything, and they wouldn’t bat an eye, nor think that decency required them to.

If you examine yourself and find cowardice to defend the truth, confess that, but do not beat yourself up. That will not cultivate courage in you. Do believe that there are still people out there, even secular people, who want to know if they are doing anything to offend other people. Many are quite willing to adjust the music they’re listening to if it makes anyone else uncomfortable, particularly if it is parents trying to protect young kids from language that is thought even by secular people to be particularly obnoxious in a youngster. (IOW, “I, an adult, can listen to that and not talk like that, but kids pick that stuff up, and of course parents and teachers don’t like that.”) Coach yourself to at least try a request next time. Baby steps, baby steps!

 

[Beryllos]

Please be assured it is not a mortal sin, and do not hesitate to receive the Eucharist on account of this.

When you are in a new and unexpected situation, it takes a little time to think it over and work out an appropriate response. This is normal. You did great! Next time, you will be able to respond more promptly and with a stronger sense of purpose.

 

[EasterJoy]

Please be assured it is not a mortal sin, and do not hesitate to receive the Eucharist on account of this.

When you are in a new and unexpected situation, it takes a little time to think it over and work out an appropriate response. This is normal. You did great! Next time, you will be able to respond more promptly and with a stronger sense of purpose.

Yes, it was good to be clear: not only is it OK to receive the Eucharist after having done this, in fact the Eucharist is a positive antidote to venial sin:

This is from the Compendium of the Catechism of the Catholic Church:
292. What are the fruits of Holy Communion?
Holy Communion increases our union with Christ and with his Church. It preserves and renews the life of grace received at Baptism and Confirmation and makes us grow in love for our neighbor. It strengthens us in charity, wipes away venial sins and preserves us from mortal sin in the future.

(see the Catechism, 1391-1397, 1416)

It goes on to say this:
*306. Why can venial sins also be the object of sacramental confession?

The confession of venial sins is strongly recommended by the Church, even if this is not strictly necessary, because it helps us to form a correct conscience and to fight against evil tendencies. It allows us to be healed by Christ and to progress in the life of the Spirit.*

(see Catechism, 1458)