Which statement best expresses the effect of mortal sin on grace?

• A. Mortal sin is merely a social wrongdoing with no effect on grace.
• B. Venial sin completely destroys the possibility of justification.
• C. Mortal sin is impossible to commit under any circumstances.
• D. Mortal sin gravely wounds sanctifying grace if committed with full knowledge and deliberate consent.

Answer: (D)

Mortal sin is a grave offense against God that directly affects the life of grace in the soul. When it involves grave matter and is done with full knowledge and deliberate consent, it gravely wounds sanctifying grace, the divine life that makes us holy and capable of friendship with God. In this view, the soul is separated from God because the life of grace has been seriously damaged. Yet God’s mercy remains available: grace can be restored through true contrition and the sacrament of reconciliation, returning the soul to sanctifying grace. This contrasts with venial sin, which wounds but does not destroy grace, and with the idea that mortal sin is impossible or that it has no effect on grace. The correct statement captures the serious, direct impact on the soul’s relation to God while leaving room for restoration through repentance.