MARRIAGE OR PRIESTHOOD: Option or Must?

[Ransri]

Some people think any man or woman should EITHER MARRY OR BE A PRIEST and should not dwell in between those 2 extremes. What is the Catholic and Biblical position on this? I invite reverend priests of this forum too to explain on this issue.

 

[ShowersofRoses]

No, the Church does not teach that, at all. Many, many people are called to the celibate single life. Marriage and the priesthood are both vocations that should be undertaken seriously.

 

[twf]

There is no obligation to marry. Marriage can never be forced. Catholics are free to simply remain single.

 

[Delphinus]

Another Roman Catholic voice to affirm what others have said: marriage is not for every person who has not entered the religious vocation. Catholics are free to remain single and NOT be ordained. They are free in a way that married people are not to serve in lay ministry and are a true blessing to any community!

 

[Weave]

Before I was married I felt like I had to choose between those options. Once I started becoming more active in my parish I met a few single laypeople who live reverent and simple lives and it’s actually quite beautiful to witness. As for whether or not somebody is forced to choose between the two, the answer is no. I used to work for a friend’s painting business and we once painted a friary full of single religious men who weren’t preists. It was one of the most peaceful places I’ve ever visited. If I ever have the misfortune of becoming a widower at a young age I think I might opt for that route.

 

[Vico]

Some people think any man or woman should EITHER MARRY OR BE A PRIEST and should not dwell in between those 2 extremes. What is the Catholic and Biblical position on this? I invite reverend priests of this forum too to explain on this issue.

Canon law lists both the requirements and the impediments for both sacraments of marriage and holy orders. From that it can be seen that some are not suited for either.