Be Filled

Welcome to the Be Filled Podcast! We are studying Saint Pope John Paul II’s teaching on the Theology of the Body. This episode we are discussing General Audiences 73-76.  We will take the next three episodes to look at how those who are called to celibacy for the Kingdom of God are actually pointing us to the life we are all destined for in Heaven by abstaining from marriage here on earth. 

Quotes: 

“If this is the condition of man in relation to woman, it is not advantageous to marry. Not all can understand it, but only those to whom it has been granted. For there are eunuchs who were born this way from their mother’s womb; there are some who were made eunuchs by men, and there are others who made themselves eunuchs for the kingdom of heaven. Let anyone understand this who can.” (Matthew 19:10-12) 

“The question of continence for the kingdom of heaven is not set in opposition to marriage, nor is it based on a negative judgment about the importance of marriage.” (TOB 73:3) 

“It is not because “it is not advantageous to marry,” nor because of a supposedly negative value of marriage that continence is observed by those who make such a choice “for the kingdom of heaven” in their lives, but in view of the particular value which is connected with this choice and which one must discover and welcome as one’s own vocation.” (TOB 73:3) 

“This way of existing as a human being (male and female) points out the eschatological “virginity of the risen man, in which…the absolute and eternal spousal meaning of the glorified body will be revealed in union with God himself, by seeing him “face to face,” glorified moreover through the union of a perfect intersubjectivity…in the mystery of the communion of saints. Earthly continence “for the kingdom of God” is without doubt a sign that indicates this truth and this reality.” (TOB 75:1) 

“Only little by little did it consciously take root that for “the kingdom of heaven” a special significance attaches to man’s spiritual and supernatural fruitfulness-which comes from the Holy Spirit…” (TOB 75:4) 

“Mary’s desire to remain a virgin “was not a rejection of any of the values of the married state but a courageous choice which she made in order to consecrate herself totally to the love of God.” (Pope Paul VI) 

“Mary’s virginal life was motivated by her “desire for total union with God.” She “wanted to be his faithful bride”. (Pope John Paul II) 

“Virginity is really the whole offering of soul and body to be consumed in the fire of love and changed into the flame of its glory. The virginity of Our Lady is the wholeness of Love through which our own humanity has become the bride of the Spirit of Life.” (Caryll Houselander) 

“The ultimate nuptial union “is between the Word and the flesh and the bridal chamber of the union is the Virgin’s womb.” (St. Augustine) 

“On the background of the words of Christ one can assert not only that marriage helps us to understand continence for the kingdom of heaven, but also that continence itself throws a particular light on marriage viewed in the mystery of creation and redemption.” (TOB 76:6) 

Reflection Questions: 

1. What was most powerful to you in this episode?
2. How have you interpreted Jesus’ statement about celibacy for the kingdom? How have you seen those who have chosen to say “yes” to the call?
3. Have you ever asked your Parish Priest to share their vocation story? Consider asking him to share it with you or your parish.
4. In considering God’s call on your life, are you open to what He desires for you? If you are single, have you taken time to listen to what God is drawing you too regarding vocation? How can you make more space for quiet in your life?
5. If you are married, are you listening to God’s voice regarding your marriage and children? How could you teach your children to learn to listen to God’s call for their own life?
6. As you heard Sister share the beauty of living a life of celibacy for the Kingdom, what were your reactions? Did this open your eyes in any way to the beauty of this vocation?
7. How do you feel when you see Religious and Priests? What comes to mind for you? Is it inspiring? Uncomfortable?
8. Have you ever thought about the nature of Mary and Joseph’s marriage? Have you ever heard of Mary being “Ever Virgin”? Was this concept new to you? What are your reactions to this?
9. Think about the religious and priests who have impacted you. What spiritual fruit has been born through them? 

Resources: 

For Love Alone Video 

John Paul II on the Perpetual Virginity of Mary 

The Virgin Mary and Theology of the Body by Father Donald Calloway 

Theology of the Body and the Marian Mystery Course 

Mary Queen of Apostles Music

Mary Queen of Apostles Interview 

Music from #Uppbeat

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