What Celibacy Teaches Us About God’s Plan

In a culture that often defines fulfillment in terms of romantic relationships and personal success, the vocation of apostolic celibacy offers a powerful and countercultural witness to God’s plan for humanity. But what is celibacy? 

Opus Dei tells us that celibacy is, “describes the condition of the celibate person – someone who is not married. This is a negative definition that can be applied to very different situations.” These situations include people who want to get married and are actively seeking a spouse, those who thought they would marry but have been unable due to circumstances, and those who have made the conscious, voluntary decision to remain unmarried and not engage in sexual relations. 

The last situation describes apostolic celibacy. This intentional choice to remain unmarried is sometimes seen as a giving up of something or a rejection of love, however, this state of celibacy is a radical embrace of a love that transcends human relationships—a total self-gift to God and his Church. But what does this unique vocation teach us about God’s design for our lives, whether we are called to marriage, religious life, or a life of single-hearted devotion to him?

Love Is Meant to Be Total

Celibacy for the sake of the Kingdom is not about deprivation; it is about making a wholehearted gift of oneself to God. Jesus himself was celibate, not because he did not value human love, but because he was entirely given over to the mission of the Father. Those called to apostolic celibacy imitate this example, showing that true love is not merely about possession but about self-giving.

This truth is beautifully explored in Wholeheartedly  by Angela Fortunato. In this inspiring book, Fortunato unpacks the depth and beauty of apostolic celibacy, revealing how this vocation is a response to God’s call to love fully and without reserve. She shares how this calling has shaped her own life and the lives of those around her, offering a fresh perspective on the fulfillment found in dedicating one’s life entirely to God.

Our Identity Is Rooted in God, Not in Relationships

Many people struggle with the idea that life without marriage or romantic love can be fulfilling. But celibacy teaches us a crucial lesson: our ultimate happiness is not found in another person, but in God. Every vocation—whether marriage, priesthood, religious life, or consecrated celibacy—is meant to point us back to this truth.

By stepping outside the societal expectation that fulfillment comes from romantic love, celibates bear witness to a deeper reality: that every person is first and foremost a beloved child of God. This message is not only for those called to celibacy, but for everyone. 

A Call to Every Christian

While not everyone is called to apostolic celibacy, its witness speaks to all of us. It challenges us to examine our own attachments, to deepen our love for God, and to seek fulfillment in him above all else. Whether single, married, discerning, or simply curious, Wholeheartedly  offers a profound reflection on what it means to give oneself fully to God’s plan. It is an essential read for anyone looking to understand the role of celibacy in the life of the Church and how this vocation ultimately points every Christian toward their heavenly home.

Embrace the invitation to grow deeper in your understanding of God’s call—order Wholeheartedly today and discover the beauty of a life lived with undivided devotion to Christ.

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