CCC 1579 All the ordained ministers of the Latin Church, with the exception of permanent deacons, are normally chosen from among men of faith who live a celibate life and who intend to remain celibate “for the sake of the kingdom of heaven.”1 Called to consecrate themselves with undivided heart to the Lord and to “the affairs of the Lord,”2 they give themselves entirely to God and to men. Celibacy is a sign of this new life to the service of which the Church’s minister is consecrated; accepted with a joyous heart celibacy radiantly proclaims the Reign of God.3
1 Mt 19:12.
2 1 Cor 7:32.
3 Cf. PO 16.