About this episode

This episode discusses how sin engenders vice and the proliferation of sin in individuals and society.

We close the section on human dignity and goodness by learning how sin engenders vice. Our readings today discuss the proliferation of sin and how capital sins, in particular, lead to vices that can become rooted in a person or society. Fr. Mike reminds us that while sin is a personal act, it is also possible for us to cooperate in and encourage the sins of others. This can lead to the formation of “structures of sin” that lead others down the path of evil and contribute to establishing “social sins.” Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 1865-1876. This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.

People in this episode

Host: Fr. Mike Schmitz

Topics covered

• sin
• human dignity
• vices
• capital sins
• social sins
• structures of sin

Keywords

• sin
• vice
• human dignity
• capital sins
• social sins
• structures of sin
• Catechism

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Institute on the Catechism, USCCB

Books & works: Catechism of the Catholic Church

More episodes of The Catechism in a Year (with Fr. Mike Schmitz)

• Day 253: Participation in Public Life (2026) · September 10, 2026 · 22 min
• Day 252: The Common Good (2026) · September 9, 2026 · 18 min
• Day 251: Authorities in Society (2026) · September 8, 2026 · 19 min
• Day 250: Conversion in Society (2026) · September 7, 2026 · 22 min
• Day 249: The Person in Society (2026) · September 6, 2026 · 21 min
• Day 247: The Weight of Sin (2026) · September 4, 2026 · 22 min

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