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How do candidates for the priesthood turn off the God-given attraction of man to woman?

Abel asks:

I have been seriously discerning a possible vocation for the past year. One issue keeps giving me uncomfortable vibes - lifetime celibacy. Until these little tugs to seriously consider the priesthood surfaced, I always saw myself getting married.  I have dated off and on with nothing leading in that direction. As a layman, celibacy seems easy. I don't feel a sense of permanence to it. Of course, I will surely live it if the Lord wants me to be single. Still as a layman there is always the possibility that someday I may meet a nice catholic girl and end up getting married. But as a priest, that's it! I am living celibacy and chastity, but I do like girls. How do candidates for the priesthood turn off the God-given attraction of man to woman? If they can't, am I safe to assume the discernment should end right there?

Dear Abel, 

It's just as well you are feeling the way you do. It means first of all that you are normal, secondly that you have up to now been living a good life in the Christian sense, and thirdly that you have your eyes wide open and understand what is implied in God's call. 

 

If God calls you to be a priest you don't (can't) turn off the God-given attraction of man to woman - we are celibate not because God in some way neuters us when he calls us. Celibacy is a gift you offer God each day. It is something you care for and take care of. 

 

The premise for celibacy and chastity was given by Christ in the Gospel, for man it is impossible, but for God everything is possible. What does a weak man do in order to be faithful to this call and gift? 

 

First of all he prays. This is where the change of heart takes place. 

 

Then he learns to appreciate the gift (by reading and reflecting on what the saints have written about their experience, for example). 

 

He purifies himself by resisting temptation with God's help. 

 

He has a spiritual director and is open with him. 

 

He gives marriage and God's plan for man and woman its proper place - he is not showing his love for God by giving up something bad, but by giving up something good. 

 

He avoids circumstances and situations that will play on his weakness (media, especially, and a certain type of friendship).

 

He makes sure he stays healthy. 

 

He looks for support from his peers. 

 

He uses his time well. 

 

So you see, celibacy is not something that we 'endure', but something we give. In its turn it gives great joy and freedom, and is the source of God's blessings on a priest's work. And do you know what else? It shows people you are in the priesthood not for yourself but for them.

 

God bless,

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