|
Hi, guys —
I'm a Christian who, for a long time, has had leanings in the celibacy direction. It's a bit complex. When I was a young girl, I adopted strict purity beliefs and then, as a young adult, was focused more on other things, instead of dating, marriage, etc.
I'm now older, and still a virgin who has never even been kissed by a guy. I'm past the recommended childbearing age. I also have no great desire to become sexually active, especially so late. I feel if I have made it this far in life without doing that stuff; I might as well stay on the celibacy path.
I do desire companionship and close friendships though. I'm shy and don't have much family of origin that I can really turn to for social support.
- With sex and kids ruled out, would marriage even be considered worthwhile for a person like me?, or
- Would seeking nonsexual relationships be preferable?
I'm interested in any opinions or ideas you might have.
ConfusedButDesiring
|
|
Eric replied:
|
Dear ConfusedButDesiring —
Unfortunately, we don't really offer much in the way of personal advice, we are more focused on the teachings of the Catholic Church. I don't immediately see the faith offering anything definitive one way or the other on this question.
If I had to offer an opinion, I'd discourage you from seeking marriage, because I don't see that you are interested in the primary ends of marriage.
Hope this helps!
Eric
|
Mary Ann replied:
|
ConfusedButDesiring —
The one thing that will fulfill you and bring you the most happiness is the will of God.
- Ask Him to lead you
- Do your thinking in prayer, and
- Be ready for what God sends.
Mary Ann
|
Mike replied:
|
Dear ConfusedButDesiring —
We all have various callings in this life. Two possible callings that you may have are:
- to the religious life, or
- as a single lay Catholic woman who is involved in your favorite ministries at your parish.
Both can provide companionship, close friendships, and that social support we all need.
I suggest spending some time praying the Rosary in front of the Blessed Sacrament. At this stage of your life, ask the Lord for guidance in discerning your calling.
Hope this helps!
Mike
|
ConfusedButDesiring replied:
|
Hi, Mike and team —
Thanks for your response. It has helped to clarify things for me.
God bless.
ConfusedButDesiring
|
Mike replied:
|
ConfusedButDesiring —
Glad I could help.
You also may want to see if you can find a good spiritual director or priest who can assist you in discerning a state of life.
Mike
|
|
