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To: Steve Eisenberg
p.s. I discern another point you may be making: If the Church does not require priestly celibacy universally, then how can some priests (Latin Rite) receive the charism of celibacy, and others (some Eastern Rite) not?

The answer is, that special charisms of this sort are given for the benefit of the Church (the whole Church or part of it), not the individual -- just as being understood by foreigners of another tongue, or just as prophecy (private revelation) also may be. The charism does not depend upon the individual (except they be disposed to receive it) but the needs of the Church.

The Holy Spirit responds to the need of the Church for celibate priests by manifesting the Gift of Celibacy within individuals, so they may answer their vocation and live it faithfully, for the greater glory of God.

(Testosterone levels are irrelevant -- apropos a different poster.)

71 posted on 04/20/2002 7:42:14 PM PDT by De Fide
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To: De Fide
The Pope's work on the Theology of the Body beautifully illuminates celibacy. Too bad it's not better known. Check it out here, then spread the word!
73 posted on 04/20/2002 7:49:54 PM PDT by qwertyz
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