When people think about sin, they often imagine breaking one of the 10 commandments or doing something devastating. But not all sins fall into that category. Some are considered less severe, yet they still matter in a person’s spiritual life. This article explores a list of common venial sins, what they are, and how they’re understood in modern faith traditions.
What Is a Venial Sin?
One key fact about Catholicism is that sins are categorized into two main types: mortal and venial. According to Catholic theology, a mortal sin is a serious offense that completely severs one’s relationship with God, while a venial sin is considered a lesser fault.
A venial sin does not destroy a person’s connection to God, but it does weaken it. These sins usually involve everyday faults that stem from small lapses in judgment or failures in charity.
While venial sins don’t require you to go through the process of confession in the same way mortal sins do, recognizing and avoiding them is still encouraged. Over time, unchecked venial sins can build harmful habits that distance someone from living a virtuous life.
What Are Examples of Venial Sins?
So, what is a venial sin in practice? To help answer that, let’s look at a few everyday examples. These may not seem extreme, but these common faults still affect spiritual health.
1. White Lies
Telling small, harmless lies to avoid embarrassment or protect one’s image is a classic venial sin. While the intent may not be malicious, dishonesty erodes trust over time.
2. Gossip
Sharing unnecessary or unkind information about others, especially when it isn’t yours to share, counts as gossip. It may feel small, but it can damage relationships and reputations.
3. Impatience
Everyone gets irritated, but snapping at someone or showing frustration in minor situations is another example of this type of offense. It reflects a lack of self-control and compassion in the moment.
4. Neglecting Prayer or Worship
A gradual neglect of one’s faith practices, such as skipping prayer, avoiding spiritual reflection, or missing Mass without a serious reason, is considered a minor offense.
5. Laziness
Also called sloth, this sin shows up when someone neglects their responsibilities, avoids helping others, or wastes time excessively. While not catastrophic, it contributes to stagnation in personal growth.
6. Judgmental Attitudes
Passing judgment on others without full understanding or compassion is a form of venial sin. It reflects a lack of humility and often leads to unnecessary conflict.
7. Envy
Envy weakens one’s ability to appreciate the blessings they have. While not as damaging as hatred, feeling jealous or resentful of someone else’s success or possessions is a minor offense.
8. Minor Acts of Disrespect
Treating others with impatience, rudeness, or inconsideration, whether in casual interactions or in small ways, falls under venial sins. Though minor, they still contribute to an overall lack of kindness.
Guiding Others Through Their Own List of Venial Sins
This list of venial sins may sound old-fashioned, but the concept still resonates today. These everyday shortcomings remind us that spiritual growth often comes down to small choices, such as choosing honesty over a white lie, compassion over gossip, or discipline over laziness.
Ministers often help others navigate moral choices with compassion. If you're inspired to guide others on their spiritual journey, you can become a minister with the Universal Life Church. Ordination is free and instant, and allows you to walk alongside people in their everyday struggles, offering encouragement and a steady presence as they seek to grow spiritually.
