Priestly Celibacy: Its Scriptural, Historical, and Spiritual Roots

A brief yet solid introduction to this important topic. It is a collection of essays written by both Catholic and Protestant authors in favor of priestly celibacy. The essays are of varying depth and quality in my opinion so I think it best to review each essay.First is an essay on the scriptural basis of priestly celibacy by Dr. Kenneth Howell. This seemed a rather shallow coverage of the topic relying as it does on the gospel account of "eunuchs for the kingdom" as it does. No mention is made of other references that might give further insight and depth to the topic such as Revelation 14:4. It is a good start on the topic but somewhat short of expectations.Next is an essay on an overview of the historical background related to the church's understanding of priestly celibacy by Fr. Ray Ryland. Fr. Ryland has a reputation for historical depth in such studies and he does not disappoint in this essay. He demonstrates with little room for doubt how priestly celibacy was the norm from the earliest times of the church and not an invention or "imposition" by some later council. The burden of proof lies with those who wish to challenge the status quo and the status quo is clearly with the Latin rite. This is perhaps the most thorough and convincing of the essays and well worth the cost of the book in itself.Reverend Stravinskas (the editor of the book) contributes a wonderful essay on how celibacy is related to the ontological, as opposed to merely functional, nature of the priesthood. In so doing he shows how the church has viewed the discipline as one that demonstrates a priest is always a representative of Christ even when he is not doing "priestly acts." The difference is subtle but important for understanding the true nature and intent of this discipline. A very well-communicated and convincing case that provides a depth to the topic one would miss otherwise.Dr. John Haas provides an insightful treatise on the similarities in the priesthood and marriage vocations. Each is calls for sacrifice and exclusivity to their spouse. The priest commits to sacrifice all for the sake of the church as the husband commits to sacrifice all for his bride and subsequent family. Attempts to balance both vocations inevitably leads to compromise in one or the other. Dr. Haas points out the impracticality of two full-time vocations by an individual with great empathy and respect from personal experience.A Protestant couple, Reverend David Hartman and Jessica Hartman, each provide insight from personal experience of the difficulties encountered in the marriage of a clergyman. They each convey an unique perspective on the struggles they have had to address to protect their marriage while still serving the people of God. Their experiences led each to the appreciation for the wisdom in the Catholic discipline of celibacy. A very intriguing and convincing argument coming as it does from outside the Catholic tradition.Dr. Wanda Poltawska explores the psychological and medical questions surrounding the celibate life. She challenges the assertions that celibacy is unnatural or unhealthy as is so often assumed. It is a brilliant response to the widely held assumptions that need to be challenged.Two appendices provide insightful additions from Pope John Paul II, the great expositor of the theological implications of human sexuality. These are not simply background material for the other articles but a thorough and rounding treatment in themselves. Readers should not make the mistake of skipping them simply because they are part of the appendices as if an afterthought. They contain the rich treasure of the church from the deep well of the great theologian.These essays, though varying in depth and quality, provide a convincing case for the Catholic church's teachings on priestly celibacy. They can provide clarity and greater understanding when taken for what they are. They are just enough for a convincing introduction without the technical theological jargon. A good mix of the theoretical and practical aspects of an important and oft misunderstood topic.

As the lengthy title suggests, this book is a collection of perspectives on celibacy. I appreciated the diversity of perspectives, Catholic and protestant, priests and laypeople, married and celibate. Each essay serves to flesh out the historical origins and development of celibacy as well as the theological and psychological underpinnings for the practice today. If anything, I think the psychological chapter was a little weak. However I found much of the historical presentation useful in setting the record straight.

Insightful essays over a controversial topic; should be read by everyone wanting to voice an articulate opinion (either for or against) on the subject.

I highly recommend this book for anyone who may be questioning the Church's rule on celibacy. The views from priests, a minister, and a minister's wife, help to give perspective and depth to the richness and beauty to this particular aspect of religious life.