To the Benevolent Reader

In the little work "Concerning Various Categories of Penitents," we considered penitents exclusively according to their various dispositions or conditions of body and soul. It remains that we consider them according to their diverse state itself or according to the kind of sin.

Therefore the present little book is a complement of the doctrine of its predecessor, so that from both there may be produced one practical work. It is entitled: "Concerning Various Sins to Be Healed in Sacramental Confession"; these sins are various both according to the duties of the several states to which they are opposed, and according to the diverse virtues or precepts to which they are contrary, and according to the causality which vices exercise in diverse other things.

The little work, announced several years ago, until now could not see the light, since in the meantime we were wholly occupied in publishing our Summa Theologiae Moralis. This, however, by God's gift, having been happily completed, we intend to complete the series of pastoral writings begun with this little book, of a practical character, prepared for the use of confessors.

Let it not be thought to be a mere repetition of those things which are found set forth in the Summa Moralis, or a reproduction of some part of it. The latter proceeds more speculatively, although concerning things to be done in practice; the little work is almost entirely in practical application, so that the practical value of the principles of moral theology may shine forth more fully.

But as we warned when writing concerning the various categories of penitents, so again we say concerning sins to be healed: If, friendly reader, you seek anything new concerning these matters, perhaps you will depart empty; but those things which you will be able to find scattered among authors of better note, we have wished carefully to collect for the use of confessors. Nor should it be judged that this redounds to the detriment of esteem or to a lessening of the value of our little work; since thus it is not the work of our smallness, but appears fortified by the authority of approved men and by received usage.

Therefore, excellent confrere, be willing to receive both little works with equal kindness, and may it be for you, God grant it, a help for the sacred ministry and for the salvation of souls.

The Author.