Dictionary
A modern dictionary of Catholic terms, both common and obscure. Find accurate definitions of words and phrases.
PROHIBITIVE IMPEDIMENT
A condition, circumstance, or situation that makes an act morally wrong but nevertheless valid, with varying effects according to the requirements of civil and ecclesiastical law. Thus the sacrament of confirmation, received in the state of grave sin, is received validly along with the sacramental character, but the graces are not given until the person is reconciled with God.
All items in this dictionary are from Fr. John Hardon's Modern Catholic Dictionary, © Eternal Life. Used with permission.
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