Page:A Catechism on the Thirty nine Articles.pdf/96

90 Undoubtedly, except some great evil is likely to follow from the prohibition.

How docs it appear that it is dangerous to forbid the clergy from marrying?

Because our Lord speaks of the power of living in celibacy as a special divine gift to individuals, (St. Matt. xix. 12, 13,) but what could scarcely be expected in an entire class of men.

Does the Article give the clergy an unlimited authority to marry at their discretion?

No: it authorizes marriage only " as they shall judge the same to serve better to godliness."

What is the custom in the Greek Church?

The ordinary parochial clergy are allowed to marry, but Bishops and confessors are taken from the unmarried clergy.

What is the subject of the thirty-third Article?

"Excommunicate Persons."

What do you mean by an excommunicate person?

"That person which, by open denunciation of the Church, is rightly cut off from the unity of the Church."

What do you understand by "open denunciation of the Church?"

An open publication made from the altar by the priest, upon the authority of the bishop, that he has