- News. What does 'Habemus Papam' mean and why is it said every time a new Pontiff is elected?
- News. Scandal before the conclave: a cardinal empties the minibar thinking it was free
Beyond knowing the traditions of the Church, it is also important to know where they come from. Nowadays, everyone is aware that priests, cardinals or the Pope cannot have sexual relations. However, a minority knows the origin of this heritage. The truth is that it has been installed in our culture for more than 800 years.
In the beginning, when the Church emerged, the first priests did not have to strictly follow celibacy. It was from the 11th century onwards that this idea was introduced. Leo IX and Gregory VII were the first popes to follow this trend, after considering that there could be "a moral degradation" of the clergy.
Who was the main precursor of celibacy in the Church?
They were not the only ones who defended celibacy. In two more councils (Lateran, 1215) and (Trent, 1563) the same issue was debated again. Even so, it has always had its detractors and defenders, especially now that the number of priests around the world seems to be declining every year.
Many attribute chastity and celibacy in the Church to Pope Calixtus II, as he was the first to prohibit marriage for monks and ministers already ordained. Although it is not confirmed that he was the main precursor. Others also speak of the origin of celibacy in a meeting between Pope Benedict VIII and Emperor Henry II.
John Paul II spoke about celibacy in a letter written in 1979: "Every priest who receives the sacrament of Order commits himself to celibacy with full awareness and freedom, after several years of preparation, deep reflection and assiduous prayer." The Pope also detailed that "he makes this decision only after having come to the firm conviction that Christ grants him this 'gift', for the good of the Church and for the service of others."