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Celibacy/Single Life

Faith Q&A › Metropolitan Youssef › Marriage and Family › Celibacy/Single Life

The question

Is it feasible that someone get married and remain celibate? What is the purpose behind it? I was considering the monastic life, but was unsure if this was God's will for me. At the same time, I got to know someone who has the same desire. We have a lot in common. I am confused whether to pursue this relationship; or pursue my original intent of monasticism.

The answer

You need to differentiate between monasticism and celibacy. Monasticism is for someone who does not want to live in the world; but wants to live a life of solitude with the Lord. The Monastic life is a life of prayer and total devotion to God. Monks are to practice Christian virtues together, especially love, obedience to their spiritual father, chastity and poverty.

On the other hand, celibacy is to live a Christian life in the world serving and having more contact with the world unlike the Monastic life.

To be married and remain celibate is a choice some couples may make before their marriage to devote their life to serving the Lord together in a brotherly manner.

If you are wavering between one way or the other; this means you are not ready yet for monasticism. For if you were, you would have a clear urge to leave everything and not think of anything else except your life of solitude with the Lord.

Answered by His Eminence Metropolitan Youssef (opens in a new tab)

Related questions

Questions answered by His Eminence Metropolitan Youssef (opens in a new tab) of the Coptic Orthodox Diocese of the Southern United States. Question 823 on the Diocese’s Q&A site. Questions and answers © Coptic Orthodox Diocese of the Southern United States. All rights reserved.