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Reflection
 57:  Article 43 of  THE DOGMATIC CONSTITUTION ON THE CHURCH
 


                                       LUMEN GENTIUM
, 1964 


"The evangelical counsels of chastity dedicated to God, poverty and obedience
are based upon the words and examples of the Lord. They were further commanded by the apostles..."

Let's clarify our language:

Dictionary definition of "chastity":
a : abstention from unlawful sexual intercourse    b : abstention from all sexual intercourse

Husband and wife are called to a life of (a) chastity.
Priests, and "religious" are called to a life of (b) chastity

"Evangelical chastity" is a clearer term than just "chastity"

"Commanded" not a good choice of words.
No apostle commanded people to practise "evangelical chastity",
evangelical poverty and and evangelical obedience

"Recommended" a better word than "commanded"

Jesus, as we strive for a deeper understanding of our faith,
please help us use clear, unambiguous language