History of Celibacy

History of Celibacy in the Catholic Church
from the website "childrenofpriests.org"

The issue of clerical celibacy is not as clear-cut as it is made out to be. First of all, it was the rule long before the thirteenth century. In fact, it became the norm in the fourth century. Secondly, it did not come about through a simple papal declaration. The practice grew out of a series of regional councils and papal decrees in the fourth and fifth centuries.

The concept of priestly celibacy originates from the Church's teaching on the superiority of virginity and consecrated celibacy. Since Apostolic times, virginity has always been considered more ideal because of the single-minded devotion it allows for the pursuit of holiness. Even before the imposition of celibacy, a great number of priests adopted a celibate lifestyle so they could commit themselves more wholeheartedly to God. They did not disparage marriage. Marrage is good, and has its joys, but such a lifestyle offers many distractions to those who would dedicate all of their time to God.

Clerical celibacy became so prevalent in the Early Church that by 200 AD, married priests were expected (though not required) to live as brother and sister with their wives. This expectation developed because of the high esteem the faithful had for celibacy. Only in the fourth century did the Church begin to legislate on this practice, but only on a regional level. The first recorded prohibition of clerical marriage was issued at the Council of Elvira (c. 305-306). Bishops, priests and deacons who contracted marriage were to be deposed. Notice it does not say those in orders were obliged to leave their wives...
more: http://childrenofpriests.org/web/content/view/14/31/