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."⁷⁰ Mt 19:12. Called to consecrate themselves with undivided heart to the Lord and to "the affairs of the Lord,"⁷¹ 1 Cor 7:32. 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.⁷² Cf. PO 16.