Fr. Raniero Cantalamessa’s Virginity: A Positive Approach to Celibacy for the Sake of the Kingdom of Heaven is a profound and insightful exploration of virginity and celibacy, presenting them not as mere sacrifices but as deeply meaningful commitments for the Kingdom of Heaven. Cantalamessa masterfully invites readers to embrace these states of life with both courage and joy, illuminating their eschatological significance and transformative potential.
Part 1: The Biblical Motivations for Virginity and Celibacy for the Sake of the Kingdom of Heaven
1. “There are some who choose not to marry for the sake of the Kingdom of Heaven” (Matthew 19:12).
Cantalamessa begins by grounding the practice of virginity and celibacy in the teachings of Jesus, particularly in Matthew 19:12, where Jesus speaks of those who renounce marriage for the sake of the Kingdom of Heaven. Cantalamessa asserts that virginity is not simply a “higher” state but an eschatologically advanced one, pointing toward the ultimate union with God that all humanity is destined for. Virginity and celibacy are thus prophetic existences that serve as a foretaste of our eternal relationship with God.
Cantalamessa also notes that virginity serves as a reminder to married couples that while marriage is holy and beautiful, it should not be idolized. Virginity is an eschatological sign that liberates marriage from despair by reminding us of the primacy of our relationship with God.
2. “The unmarried give their minds to the Lord’s affairs” (1 Corinthians 7:32-35).
In this section, Cantalamessa delves into St. Paul’s teaching in 1 Corinthians, where the Apostle emphasizes the practical benefits of virginity and celibacy. According to Paul, the unmarried can focus more fully on the Lord’s work, free from the anxieties that often accompany married life. Cantalamessa interprets this as the missionary dimension of celibacy and virginity, where these states of life are seen as positive choices to dedicate oneself entirely to God’s Kingdom.
He highlights that virgins and celibates are not rejecting marriage or love but are embracing a deeper, more spiritual love. They are choosing to unite themselves with the Lord in a way that transcends earthly relationships, dedicating their lives to serving God and others without the distractions of worldly concerns: “Rather than become one flesh with a creature, virgins become one spirit with the Lord.”
Cantalamessa also notes the progression in the understanding of virginity—from Jesus speaking of virginity for a cause (“the Kingdom”) to Paul framing it for a person (“the Lord”). This deepens the concept of virginity, emphasizing a more personal and intimate union with God.
Whereas Jesus spoke about virginity for a cause (“the kingdom of heaven”), Paul spoke about virginity for a Person (“the Lord”). This shows a development in the idea of virginity, thanks to Jesus’ death and resurrection. Rather than become one flesh with a creature, virgins become one spirit with the Lord.
3. “All who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires” (Gal 5:24).
Cantalamessa connects virginity and celibacy to the Paschal Mystery, suggesting that just as Christ’s resurrection brought about the Kingdom of God through His crucifixion, so too does virginity, chosen for the Kingdom, involve a form of crucifixion—a dying to self. This self-denial is not a rejection of life but a means of entering more deeply into the life of Christ, with the hope of sharing in His glory.
He vividly describes the cross as the marriage bed where the soul is united with its divine Spouse. Virginity, therefore, becomes a radical living out of the Paschal Mystery, where the ascetical, self-denying aspects of celibacy are understood as partaking in the mystery of Christ’s death and resurrection.
4. “For since, in the wisdom of God, the world did not know God through wisdom, God decided, through the foolishness of our proclamation, to save those who believe (1 Cor 1:21).
Cantalamessa reflects on how the “foolishness” of the Gospel, symbolized by the Cross, gives rise to the three religious vows of poverty, obedience, and chastity. These vows are not rejections of God’s gifts but renunciations of the evils that have corrupted them. Virginity and celibacy are thus the most eloquent proclamations of Christ’s redemption, revealing the original goodness of creation that has been hidden under sin.
Part 2: How to Live Virginity and Celibacy for the Sake of the Kingdom
1. Matrimony and Virginity: Two Charisms
In the second part of the book, Cantalamessa explores the idea that both matrimony and virginity are distinct charisms—gifts from the Holy Spirit for the common good of the Church. He challenges the perception of virginity as a sacrifice, framing it instead as a joyful acceptance of a divine gift: “You do not choose celibacy and virginity in order to enter into the Kingdom, but because the Kingdom has entered into you.”
This charism, Cantalamessa argues, must be lived with humility, joy, and freedom, allowing the Holy Spirit to work through it for the benefit of the Church and the world.
2. Cultivating the Charism of Celibacy and Virginity
Cantalamessa offers practical advice on how to cultivate the charism of celibacy and virginity. This includes embracing mortification, developing a healthy understanding of sexuality, and fostering an interior freedom that enables one to live this calling with peace and integrity. He also highlights the importance of community and spiritual support in living out this vocation.
3. The Virgin Mary
Finally, Cantalamessa highlights the role of the Virgin Mary as the model and protector of virgins. He reflects on how Mary embodies the new life brought by the Kingdom of God and how her example provides a perfect model for those called to live a life of virginity and celibacy for the Kingdom. We need constant attention and devotion to Mary to cultivate the charism of celibacy.
Conclusion
Cantalamessa concludes by urging readers to offer themselves entirely to God, echoing Mary’s “Here I am!” This total self-giving is the essence of living out virginity and celibacy for the Kingdom, a calling that brings immense joy and fulfillment in the service of God and His people.
Fr. Cantalamessa’s book is a compelling invitation to rediscover the beauty and power of virginity and celibacy, challenging readers to embrace these states of life not with reluctance, but with joy and purpose, as a profound way to live out the reality of the Kingdom of Heaven here on earth.
Further resource: Cantalamessa’s Meditations on Celibacy by Deacon James Keating
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