Virgin Mary and Vow of Chastity

Virgin Mary and Vow of Chastity
Question from Joseph A. Apicella on 5/4/2008:

Dear Father: I realized that it's Catholic teaching that the Virgin Mary took a vow of chastity after she found out she was pregnant, I had no idea that she had done so earlier. Vows of chastity are not favored in the Jewish faith as being contrary to the direct command of God to "be fruitful and multiply".
Answer by Fr. John Echert on 5/6/2008:

Vows of chastity are exceptions to the norm and when done for a higher purpose they are not contrary to the general, universal law to be fruitfull and multiply. Our Lord Himself was celibate, after all, and all priests had to exercise abstinance while actively serving in their role as priests, during their appointed time.

Thanks, Joseph

Father Echert