Read Next
venial sin
theology
- Related Topics:
- actual sin
- On the Web:
- University of Notre Dame - Mortal Sin and Venial Sin (PDF) (Dec. 13, 2024)
venial sin, in Roman Catholic theology, a sin that is relatively slight or that is committed without full reflection or consent. While a venial sin weakens the sinner’s union with God, it is not a deliberate turning away from God and so does not wholly block the inflow of sanctifying grace. An example of such a sin might be gossip, impatience, or a failure to pray. Venial sins are usually contrasted with mortal sins, which are the gravest of sins and represent a deliberate turning away from God. See also seven deadly sins.