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The debate over clerical celibacy and marriage had its origins in the early Christian centuries, and is still very much alive in the modern church. The content and form of controversy have remained remarkably consistent, but each era has selected and shaped the sources that underpin its narrative, and imbued an ancient issue with an immediacy and relevance. The basic question of whether, and why, continence should be demanded of those who serve at the altar has never gone away, but the implications of that question, and of the answers given, have changed with each generation. In this reassessment of the history of sacerdotal celibacy, Helen Parish examines the emergence and evolution of the celibate priesthood in the Latin church, and the challenges posed to this model of the ministry in the era of the Protestant Reformation. Celibacy was, and is, intensely personal, but also polemical, institutional, and historical. Clerical celibacy acquired theological, moral, and confessional meanings in the writings of its critics and defenders, and its place in the life of the church continues to be defined in relation to broader debates over Scripture, apostolic tradition, ecclesiastical history, and papal authority. Highlighting continuity and change in attitudes to priestly celibacy, Helen Parish reveals that the implications of celibacy and marriage for the priesthood reach deep into the history, traditions, and understanding of the church.

The anthology 'History of the Christian Church & Ecclesiastical History' presents an unparalleled compendium of historical writings, offering readers a panoramic view of the development and impact of the Christian Church through various epochs. Comprising works that span from the apostolic age to the Reformation, the collection embodies a rich diversity of literary styles and perspectives, encapsulating significant theological, cultural, and historical developments within the Christian tradition. The inclusion of seminal pieces provides not only a testament to the profound religious fervor and doctrinal debates of the times but also illuminates the socio-political landscapes in which these ideas were fostered and contested. The contributing authors, Philip Schaff and Eusebius, stand as towering figures in the field of ecclesiastical history, bringing to the collection a depth of scholarly insight and a comprehensive approach to the historiography of Christianity. Schaff, with his magisterial grasp of church history, and Eusebius, known as the father of church history for his meticulous documentation of early Christianity, represent a synthesis of early and modern historiographical methodologies. Their collective works align with key historical and cultural movements, providing readers with a nuanced understanding of the evolution of Christian thought and its enduring influence on global history. This anthology is recommended for scholars, students, and anyone interested in the rich tapestry of Christian history. It offers an unprecedented opportunity to engage with the multiplicity of narratives and analyses that these eminent historians bring to bear on the understanding of Christianitys past, encouraging a deeper appreciation of the churchs legacy and its myriad impacts across centuries.