The Charism of Celibacy and Concupiscence

catholicexchange.com ^ | Fr. James Farfaglia

[GonzoII]

“…a thorn in the flesh was given to me…” (2 Corinthians 12: 7). No one really knows what caused St. Paul to struggle, but there was something that really bothered him. He pleaded with the Lord that his difficulties be taken away, but Paul received an answer he was not looking for: “My grace is sufficient for you, for power is made perfect in weakness” (2 Corinthians 12: 9).

True, Baptism washes away original sin, but we are left with the effects of original sin. We do not have complete control over ourselves. The spiritual life is a continual battle.

Because of original sin our darkened intellects, weakened wills, and inflamed passions will always move us in the wrong direction. Continual effort is necessary to control the inner movement of our ego and allow the presence of grace to take control of our thoughts, desires and actions. The battle of the spiritual life might be compared to walking in a river against the current. If we do not continue walking or reaching out toward a rock for support, then the current will most assuredly carry us in the opposite direction. Any serious discussion about the charism of celibacy or the sacrament of matrimony must take into consideration the seriousness of concupiscence and John Paul II, in his monumental work “The Theology of the Body,” delves into this reality with profound insights for our considerations.

Priests who live out their vocation with fidelity, enthusiasm, and joy should not be surprised that the charism of celibacy does come accompanied by a continual struggle. This struggle is rooted in the human condition.

We are transformed by grace, but the struggle will always be present. This is why, as men who have been given the charism of celibacy, it is essential that our ...

[GonzoII]

[Constitutions Grandchild]

Celibacy is a gift. Without that gift, similarly without the other “gifts” of the Spirit, it becomes an intergalactic struggle. Patience is a gift, as is forbearance, both of which make it possible to “receive” the gift of celibacy.

All “gifts” should be the concupiscent desire of all Christians. No joke intended.

[Ottlia]

Thank you Father for your article. I was always under the impression that St. Paul might have had a speech impediment, {his thorn in the flesh} that caused him great anxiety as he was called to preach. Does anybody have further insight?