:think: I'll have to review the Catechism of the Catholic Church for a better answer, but from what I know the gravity of a sin depends upon the actual harm done, not its intent. The imputability of the guilt for the sin though, does depend upon intent. In this case, where there's no or limited harm actually done, firstly the trespass (the lie) is intrinsically light, regardless of the intent. Only secondly would we say that the deceiver is fully guilty . . . of a venial sin. 'Could be wrong of course, but I'll look into it because it's a good question. :thumb:
