Expert: Fr. Michael - 3/17/2004

Question
Father, i am an alcoholc trying to quit. I will get help and figure this out. I go to confession alot for drinking. 2 - 3 times a week. Am I committing mortal sin when I get drunk? Is this a venial sin that Jesus will forgive me of? It seems like prayer doesn't work. Thanks, Tom

Answer
Some questions are of a highly individual nature that it would not be possible to discuss by E-mail.  These are questions on which you would most appropriately be given advice and counsel by your own confessor, who can come to know you and knowledgeably guide your spiritual life.

If you do not have a regular confessor, you should consult the Traditional Directory (www.traditio.com/tradlib/masslat.txt) to find one as conveniently local to you as is available.  Sometimes it may take some effort, but in that effort you will enhance the grace of Faith and will develop a relationship with a confessor who can personally come to know your spiritual state and prudently guide you.