Imam Yang Selibat

Makna dan Tantangannya Dewasa ini

Abstract

The problem of many priests today challenges priesthood itself, particularly its key element, namely celibacy. The first is a challenge to re-evaluate the relevancy of mandatory celibacy in the priesthood. Another challenge is that as the Church confronts the scandals caused by some priests, society itself has begun to challenge the Church’s tradition of a celibate priesthood. However, I believe that the celibacy of priest is a gift from God and a personal decision to embrace that gift in order to sacrifice oneself to the Lord. Celibacy is a way to become a tangible witness of the love of God to all creation. Through love one will dedicate him/herself wholeheartedly to the service of God as either a religious or a priest. Love plays a pivotal role in celibacy. Celibacy essentially begins with love and it is practiced through love.