what is the difference between them
Mortal sin is serious. It separates you from God. In effect it can kill your soul.
Venial sin not as bad. It does not totally separate you from God but weakens you.
Mortal sin will send you straight to Hell.
Venial sin will not
Mortal sin requires three things
1)Greivous matter. Has to be something bad. Real bad
- Sufficient reflection. Self explanatory. You have to know its bad.
- Full consent of the will. You have to want to commit the sin.
Venial sin does not have these requirements.
Mortal sin must be confessed and absolution given through Sacramental means, ie: confession,. reconciliation
Venial sin does not have to be confessed formally and is forgiven at Mass if you are contrite.
In short Mortal sin is not really something you can stumble into. You really have to want to do it.
Venial sin, is actually pretty easy to commit and most of us do it fairly often.
Simple explanation. Hope it helps.
