Celibacy is often discussed in the context of a renunciation of the world through the self-denial of one of the natural exercises that men and women find most rewarding: the engagement of sexual congress. Of course, the apparent loss goes far deeper. There is the forfeiture of intimacy from a helpmate and the closure to the prospect of progeny. Many men and women feel that this loss would be too terrible to bear. And yet, some through circumstance never discover a spouse, or fail to pursue a love interest, or suffer a natural malady or other misfortune; with the end result being a permanent allotment to the single state. They may live in the hope that such a state might be stripped from them and replaced by matrimony; but, the celibate has put aside all such anticipation. He or she is not really single. They are taken. Indeed, some religious and clergy wear rings to signify their spiritual marriage. Celibacy is not one waiting at a bus station; no, it is the person reaching his or her destination. The Christian celibate sees his life not as a tragedy and loss, but as a joy and a gain. If he did not, then there would be a problem that left unresolved would sour his life and damage his discipleship. As I wrote before, marriage stops at the door of death; celibacy takes us clear through to the other side of that door.
The saints in heaven know a convergence of the mysteries of marriage and celibacy. Human saints will know bodily restoration and eternal celibate life. There is only one marriage in heaven and it is not carnal; it is the nuptial bond and banquet of the Lamb of God. The Church will become the immaculate bride of Christ.
Filed under: Anti-Catholicism, Apologetics, Catholic, Celibacy, Discipleship, Marriage, Priests, Religion, Sacraments, Sexuality | 1 Comment »
