The rise of the ascetical movement brought with it the rise of the debate over the relative virtue of marriage versus celibacy. This debate became even more intense as the number of ascetics rapidly expanded in the fourth century and Virgins move to occupy an important position in the life of the Church.

Links:
Saint Piamun and her mother in an Egyptian village by Charles-Antoine Coypel

Tertullian On Exhortation to Chastity

Cyprian of Carthage On the Dress of Virgins

Gregory of Nyssa On Virginity

Check out the other great Catholic podcasts at the Starquest Production Network

To listen, just click on the link below:
#377 – A History of the Catholic Church – Brides of Christ