Questions about mortal sin

[AnneTeresa]

I am having a hard time grasping this concept. It seems really strange to me that if I die before I go to confession with a mortal sin unconfessed that I would go straight to hell. I’m wondering where this understanding came from. Where does the catholic church get it and where is it stated–the cathechism? It seems so far-fetched that if you are trying to follow Christ, fall into sin, then don’t get to confession in time, you go straight to hell if you die. Can anyone help explain this, or direct me to where I can find out more?

 

[colmcille1]

I am having a hard time grasping this concept. It seems really strange to me that if I die before I go to confession with a mortal sin unconfessed that I would go straight to hell. I’m wondering where this understanding came from. Where does the catholic church get it and where is it stated–the cathechism? It seems so far-fetched that if you are trying to follow Christ, fall into sin, then don’t get to confession in time, you go straight to hell if you die. Can anyone help explain this, or direct me to where I can find out more?

Hi Anne,
A very good topic. May I direct you to the CCC 1846 - 1876. These articles explain the nuances of the Church’s stance on sin.
God Bless,
Colmcille.

 

[baltobetsy]

It is unrepented mortal sin which merits a trip directly to hell. In your example of a basically good person falling into sin, if the person is truly good, he will repent very soon after committing the sin. Having repented, if he dies before getting to confession, he has a very good chance at salvation.