IN any debate that involves history, it is of prime importance to have correct historical facts. Otherwise, one can easily go off “half-cocked” on a “half truth”.
Regarding priestly celibacy, it has often been stated that it was imposed on Catholic clergy around the 11th century and especially at the Second Lateran Council (1139 AD).
According to Fr R. Ryland (Priestly Celibacy, edited by Fr P. Stravinskas) this is not historically correct.
There were indeed some married clergy in previous times, but they had to have been married before ordination, and could not marry again if widowed.
Another requirement, which is usually overlooked, was that both husband and wife had to agree to remain continent.
The Council of Alvira (305 AD), for example, reminded married clergy of their obligation of perpetual continence (Canon 32).
In other words, both unmarried and married clergy had to remain celibate.
This requirement was upheld at the councils of Nicea (325), Carthage (390), Tours (461), Gerona (517) and Auvergne II (535).
It can also be found in the writings of Jerome, Augustine, Ambrose, Pope Leo the Great (440-461) and Pope Gregory the Great (590-604).
The Gregorian reforms of the 11th and 12th centuries included dealing with violations of clerical celibacy and the decrees of the Second Lateran Council (1139) helped carry out the reforms.
As for scriptural, spiritual and theological foundations for celibacy and further historical information, for example, about Eastern Rite clergy, recommended reading is The Case for Clerical Celibacy by Cardinal Stickler as well as the book mentioned above, Priestly Celibacy, edited by Fr P. Stravinskas.
FR MARTIN DURHAM
Rockhampton, Qld
