Dear Anonymous,

Thanks for the question.

Providentially, we have already answered this question previously, and this answer is conveniently available in our searchable knowledge base.

I've taken the time to find some postings that answer your question:

• What should I do if I am having a hard time being contrite for my mortal sins in Confession?
• Is it really true that Catholics can continually sin as long as they repent to a priest in Confession?

Hope this helps,

Mike

Anonymous —

There is a distinction between a sin you never had any intention to stop doing and a sin you repeatedly try to avoid but repeatedly fail to do so. God can't forgive a sin you make no effort to turn away from, but he has mercy on the weak.

If you are Catholic or Orthodox, taking such a sin to the sacrament of Confession will help break the cycle of avoiding sin, failing, and repenting.

There is powerful grace in this sacrament.

Eric