For all my readers information, the Eastern Rite Churches have done so for centuries, and deeply value that option. The are no married men called to the episcopacy in the Catholic Church, whether Eastern or Latin Rites.

As we hear more and more of in recent years, married protestant ministers who convert to Catholicism and wish to pursue priestly ministry can be admitted to Holy Orders under certain circumstances. My sister-in-law’s home parish in the Twin Cities has a married associate pastor who had been a Lutheran minister.

My point in the post was celibacy is a vocation to which so many are called, not just those to the priesthood or religious life. The theology of celibacy could be greatly enriched if we looked at it that way and presented it to the People of God with that appreciation. It is assumed that if one isn’t going to be a priest, then one will get married or be in some sexual relationship. My work with people has taught me that many who marry are probably not called to that vocation, and those in sexual relationships outside of marriage are unhappy and empty.

Years ago, I worked with a youth minister who often wore a pin which stated “Peter had a mother-in-law”. We need to go back to the beginning so all can be followers and leaders within the Church of Christ.