When God Asks for an Undivided Heart: Choosing Celibacy in Love and Freedom

by Andrew Apostoli, Cfr

Celibacy is one of God s greatest gifts to the world ... and also one of the most misunderstood. With clear, insightful reflections, Fr. Apostoli provides a penetrating look at this valuable discipline based on his 40 years as a priest, spiritual director, and seminary teacher. Several bishop have made this highly acclaimed work required reading for their seminarians. He Why priestly sex abuse is not caused by celibacy Celibacy in the Old and New Testaments, as well throughout Church history Why so many in the secular world reject celibacy without truly knowing what they re rejecting How celibacy is a perfect expression of Christian love How celibacy can bring true, lasting happiness and joy The many fruits and gifts that come from being celibate Whether you are a young adult exploring a religious vocation, are already ordained, or are a member of the laity who wants to understand what the Church teaches and why, this is an important book for every Catholic to have. When God Asks for an Undivided Heart provides a sensitive, insightful look at the gift of consecrated celibacy. With his many years of experience in formation work and spiritual direction, Fr. Apostoli writes convincingly on this topic for the young adult considering the call to priesthood or religious life... The concept of an undivided heart as the best road to a happy and productive celibate life is one that needs to be reaffirmed, as Fr. Andrew has done. from the Foreword by Fr. Benedict J. Groeschel, CFR

Genres: Catholic, Spirituality, Religion

203 pages, Paperback

Published April 16, 2007

Reviews

[Samuel · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a great book on religious celibacy from Andrew Apostoli, one of the Franciscan Friars of the Renewal (C.F.R.). It was originally begun (as many good books by Catholic religious were) as a set of conferences for friar novices. I recomend it for anyone considering a vocation to religious life or the priesthood, as well as for teachers and parents responsible for guiding young people.

[Photovy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great look at celibacy but also the nature of all human sexuality (including within marriage). Good, accesible primer on this issue. A humorous line from the book was "If sex equated exactly to happiness, the world would be a lot sunnier".

[Leon Jose · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great book! A must read specially for seminarians and young people discerning a religious vocation (e.g. Marriage, priesthood, nun-hood)

[Melissa Howe · Rating 3 out of 5]

I did enjoy a number of sections in this book, but some I did not. The sections of Christian friendship brought me great joy at the insight given. That part alone makes this book worth reading :)