Q421 – If a priest thinks a confessed sin is not actually a sin, is the penitent still absolved, or should they confess it again to another priest?

Interview Organization: Confraternity of Our Lady of Fatima

Interviewer Name: Christopher P. Wendt

Date: January 13, 2026

Bishop Schneider emphasizes that mortal sins must be confessed. If a priest denies it is mortal, one may seek another priest. Venial sins do not require confession. Repentance with the intention to confess ensures the Lord pardons the sin, but sacramental confession provides closure and proper absolution.

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Well, when it is a mortal sin, yes. When it is a venial sin, no. When it is a mortal sin, I think it should be confessed. If the priest says it is not a mortal sin, I would say it is better to go to another priest and explain the situation to your conscience.

Of course, I have to say that if you repent of this sin in view of confession, it is pardoned. The Lord pardons this sin because of your intention to confess it.

Follow-up Question: But it's like it's a matter of closure and actually making sure that you brought that mortal sin to Jesus in the sacrament to a priest that actually will absolve it in a proper way.

Yes, it should be done.

Question/ Title

Q424 – What advice can you offer for evangelizing to a Muslim friend who is open to learning about Catholicism but has not yet converted?

Q423 – If someone prays multiple rosaries daily, is it necessary to pray the Hail Holy Queen after each one?

Q422 – Is it acceptable to attend Mass at an SSPX chapel, even though some believe the Society does not fully recognize the Pope?

Q421 – If a priest thinks a confessed sin is not actually a sin, is the penitent still absolved, or should they confess it again to another priest?

Q420 – Is it a good practice to try to confess all venial sins, or should one focus only on the more serious or frequent ones?

Q419 – If one has no mortal sins, what types of venial or daily sins should be confessed?

Q418 – Is it appropriate for a woman to serve as a lector in the sanctuary during Mass, or should this role be limited?

Q417 – How could a community find a priest willing to come and offer the Traditional Latin Mass when the local bishop does not allow it?

Q416 – What practical warnings or guardrails should the faithful keep in mind when using AI like ChatGPT?

Q415 – Could you recap the Church’s traditional teaching on just war, and possibly illustrate it with a current example?