gravity of sin

[Merrick]

I’m trying to understand confessing circumstances affecting gravity of sin.

For example, if someone curses his mother I think that would affect gravity of sin because he dishonored his mother, so that needs to be mentioned.

But what about other circumstances? I got into a bad argument with a close friend. I confessed everything I needed to about it in the confessional but said “room mate” and forgot to specify this person was also a close friend. Is that something affecting the gravity of the sin such that I need to mention that in a next confession?

I’m still learning how to make good confessions.

 

[Bookcat]

But what about other circumstances? .

Answering in general.

Only mortal sins need to be confessed.

And then in number and kind (adultery, murder, stole $1000 etc) and circumstances that change the kind (the person you murdered was your brother…the $1000 you stole was from the offering basket at Church…).

(and if forgotten - mentioned in the next confession).

Venial sins when then are confessed (such is very good to do - but they can be forgiven in many ways) one does not need to give number or circumstances…but can be rather general.

(if forgotten need not be confessed)

Ones confessor can guide one.

 

[Merrick]

It was a horrible argument. I know it was a mortal sin. But I did not specify this was a close friend. Does that matter?

Answering in general.

Only mortal sins need to be confessed.

And then in number and kind (adultery, murder etc) and circumstances that change the kind (the person you murdered was your brother).

(and if forgotten - mentioned in the next confession).

Venial sins when then are confessed (such is very good to do - but they can be forgiven in many ways) one does not need to give number or circumstances…but can be rather general.

(if forgotten need not be confessed)

Ones confessor can guide one.

 

[Bookcat]

It was a horrible argument. I know it was a mortal sin. But I did not specify this was a close friend. Does that matter?

I do not know if that would change the kind there -but I think if it was me I would just mention that in the next confession anyhow. Even* if* it is not required - it can be healing. He can direct you as to if it did.

As to sins of anger - make sure to look into when they are grave or not (I have had some posts on the subject) -not saying you are not correct - I was not there and am not you to judge- but just for future information.

 

[Beryllos]

… I confessed everything I needed to about it in the confessional but said “room mate” and forgot to specify this person was also a close friend. Is that something affecting the gravity of the sin such that I need to mention that in a next confession? …

Roommate, close friend, there is not much difference. I think the priest got it. I do not think it is necessary to recall and amend your earlier confession. If he said you are absolved, put it behind you, make up with your friend/roommate, and in the future when you argue, try to fight fair (that is, to argue with respect and kindness, if possible).