Mortal and Venial Sin

[Banff9]

Hello, I was hoping if anyone could help elaborate on the topics of what defines mortal and venial sin. I mean, I know the basics of it but what truly is a mortal sin or what truly is a venial sin? Also, how can we distinquish which sin belongs to which category? Isn’t all sin evil?

 

[Bookcat]

Catechism: scborromeo.org/ccc/p3s1c1a8.htm#IV

 

[Bookcat]

Compendium issued by Pope Benedict XVI

1. When does one commit a mortal sin?

1855-1861
1874

One commits a mortal sin when there are simultaneously present: grave matter, full knowledge, and deliberate consent. This sin destroys charity in us, deprives us of sanctifying grace, and, if unrepented, leads us to the eternal death of hell. It can be forgiven in the ordinary way by means of the sacraments of Baptism and of Penance or Reconciliation.

1. When does one commit a venial sin?

1862-1864
1875

One commits a venial sin, which is essentially different from a mortal sin, when the matter involved is less serious or, even if it is grave, when full knowledge or complete consent are absent. Venial sin does not break the covenant with God but it weakens charity and manifests a disordered affection for created goods. It impedes the progress of a soul in the exercise of the virtues and in the practice of moral good. It merits temporal punishment which purifies.

vatican.va/archive/compendium_ccc/documents/archive_2005_compendium-ccc_en.html