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Question
I have been reading my bible lately and am questioned by what I read. It is in the new testament and probably somewhere around Timothy. I talks about bishops should only marry once.
I thought that the celibacy in the priesthood went back to the 3rd century? At least that is what I read.
Please help?
God bless,
Bob
Nothing in the New Testament requires that clergy be celibate.
In the Catholic Church, celibacy of clergy was first made locally obligatory at the Council of Elvira about 300 AD. Elvira is in southern Spain. In the Latin rite, celibacy became generally obligatory in the early middle ages. Eastern rites allow married men to become priests; bishops are celibate.
I hope these thoughts help.
Best wishes, Bob.
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Answers by Expert:
Edward Bode
Expertise
Catholic dogma, especially as related to Scripture. I have a doctorate in biblical theology [University of St. Thomas, Rome]. I do not answer questions concerning personal moral situations -- ones dealing with right and wrong [sin].
Experience
I have taught Catholic thought in grade and high schools, and in college and universities.
Organizations
Catholic Biblical Association
Publications
Catholic Biblical Quarterly, The Bible Today.
Education/Credentials
Graduate degrees in theology from the Pontifical Gregorian University, in scripture from the Pontifical Biblical Institute, and a doctorate in theology from the Pontifical University of St. Thomas; all in Rome
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