Celibacy helps to make the priesthood an eschatological sign. Our Lord told us that in the kingdom to come there would be no marrying or giving in marriage. This is often misunderstood and upsets married couples, at least those who are happily married. Such does not mean an end to love. But marriage has a great deal to do with the propagation of the species. We are promised glorified bodies but all the elements of earthly love and passion will pale by comparison with the beatific vision. There will be no more sacraments for we shall see the mystery face to face. There will be no more faith, for we will know throughout our being the Greatest Good and the Absolute Truth. We will all be part of the singular marriage banquet of the Lamb of God with his immaculate bride, the Church. The Mass which priests celebrate in this world participates in this heavenly marriage, the eternal covenant of Christ. This sacred reality adds to the fitting quality of celibacy in priesthood. It is not part of the intrinsic nature of priesthood, but it comes very close.
Filed under: Catholic, Celibacy, Discipleship, Eschatology, Eucharist, Jesus, Priests, Sacraments | Leave a comment »
