Returning Catholics FAQs: Mortal Sins

O n Mondays, I answer questions frequently asked by those considering a return to the Catholic Church. How do I know this stuff? I was away for more than 30 years myself, and am the co-author of When They Come Home: Ways to Welcome Returning Catholics , a book for pastors and parish leaders interested in this ministry.

What’s a mortal sin? Is it a mortal sin to miss Mass on Sunday? What about if I eat meat on Friday during Lent?

Is your sin a grave violation of God’s law? Did you have full know...