Description

This exposition of the morality and theology of the single life is a much-needed treatise today. For many religious and non-religious who are celibates seem to be not clear about the meaning and function of celibacy. The author starts with a discussion of the prevalent misun-derstandings about the current varieties of single life. He then goes on to show that a single life can be really a call from God, and a call to great holiness.

Delving deeper into the topic, Fr. Podimattam discusses the loneliness of a celibate’s existence and how friendships can enable the single person to successfully cope with the attendant problems. He then explains how being single does not deprive a person of one’s sexuality. However, for one who has taken the vow of celibacy total genital sexuality is never permissible.

Next the author explains in detail what “partial genital sex” is permissible, in the case of the intimacy of friends, the legitimate need for touch, and so on. Sex is recognized as a positive gift from God. The essence of chastity consists in integrating one’s sexual drives and enabling them to rise above self-centred concerns to come to the service of God and one’s neighbour. Ultimately a celibate achieves the full, deep and powerful meaning of one’s life when he/she patterns one’s life on the great Single Life, that of Jesus Christ.