The Mystery of Love for the Single: A Guide for Those Who Follow the Single Vocation in the World

Description

Few realize that a person can pursue a truly supernatural vocation by consecrating himself or herself to perpetual celibacy while yet living in the world. Here Fr. Unger describes the main guidelines for such a religious vocation, showing the nature of this vocation and the manner of dedicating oneself to it. The author gives the history in the Church of consecrated celibate living, plus some basic helps in safeguarding purity in such a life. Based on the Pope Pius XII encyclical On Holy Virginity [Sacra Virginitas, 1954], this book shows that the consecrated life in the world is just one more example of the rich Tradition of the Church in providing for the needs of all her children. The Mystery of Love for the Single will bring much-needed encouragement and enlightenment to those generous souls who wish to pursue a supernatural vocation and yet remain single and celibate while living in the world.

cf. Lessius, S.J.'s Treasure of Vowed Chastity in Secular Persons

cf. this excerpt for the best discussion I've read on whether it's "possible for two of opposite sex, when at least one of them has resolved to lead a life of perfect chastity, to foster a friendship that will remain platonic".

Separated husbands or wives can also benefit from this book (ref:16.24):

Again, a life of perfect chastity, willed deliberately, can be advised to the following class of people. It happens, all too frequently in our day, that one's spouse has separated permanently, and conditions exist which make re-union impossible (for instance, attempted marriage from which children were born). The other spouse is thus stranded, bound by a valid marriage but forced to live a single life. Such a one can make his or her very unfortunate situation and severe trial not only bearable but a great blessing by deliberately offering the sacrifice of perfect chastity to Christ for His greater honor and glory and for the spouse's own untold merit of grace and glory. Faith and hope will make this chaste love a glorious thing.

reviewed in SSPX's Regina Coeli Report - December-January 2021: The Single Life

Fr. Unger is buried in Hays, Kansas.