What if a 6-year-old thinks he committed a mortal sin?

[soandso28]

If a child is slightly below the presumed age of reason but has had the concept of mortal sin explained to him in the past, and thinks he has (or may have) willingly done something while thinking it was one, what should the parents do? Simply assume he was incapable, or be open to the possibility that he needs an early first Confession? I would like to be able to reassure him beyond “probably not.” Perhaps he was too young to even hear of the concept, but it is too late now.

From what I understand, the age of reason can be reached sooner than 7 for some. This child is quite intelligent, and even if the matter is not in itself grave, the willingness to commit a mortal sin usually is However high his IQ may be, though, the child does not seem unusually mature or wise. It may take some time to be able to consult with a busy local priest, so I am asking here in case I can get a clear answer or at least guidance sooner. Thank you.

 

[Fr.Vincent_Serpa]

Hi,

While a seven-year-old is capable of discerning right from wrong and is therefore capable of sinning, the child, for a number of reasons–naivte being one of them, is not likely to be tempted to grave sin. The very fact that he is talking about it has to be because you have. I’ve had seven-year-olds confess adultery. They obvioulsy have heard people talking about it, but haven’t a clue as what it really is. Tell him to wait for his first Confession and don’t bring it up again. He’ll forget.

Fr Vincent Serpa, O.P.