Page:A Catechism on the Thirty nine Articles.pdf/95

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What is the subject of the thirty-second Article?

"The Marriage of Priests."

What does it teach in regard to their marriage?

That "it is lawful for them, as for all other Christian men, to marry at their own discretion, as they shall judge the same to serve better to godliness."

Why was it necessary to make this declaration?

Because for several centuries the Church had forbidden persons in holy orders to marry, and required them to " vow the estate of single life" before she would admit them to holy orders.

Upon what ground does the Article declare it lawful for the clergy to marry?

Because "they are not commanded by God's Law, either to vow the estate of single life, or to abstain from marriage."

Is there any one who denies this?

No.

Upon what ground then does the Church of Rome now require celibacy from the clergy?

Because she thinks celibacy a holier state than marriage, and chooses to require that state from her clergy.

May not a law of the Church make it a duty to abstain from that which would otherwise be lawful?