Androgyny is a belief that men and women aren't much different. It says that although biological sex exists, gender roles are products of our patriarchial culture. to fight this falacy, many catholic writers and site owners, encourege women to return to their ancient charm, to dress ellegantly and to move and speak with delicacy. And to prepare themselves for wifehood and motherhood.
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But how can we extend our battle with androgyny to consecrated and dedicated life?
We are told that the main reason for creation of sexes is continuing of the human race. The female body can conceive and feed children. And the reason men are stronger and heavir is that they may be able to rule their families and provide for them.
Gender roles too are God's plan, though every culture has added something to it. Women adorn themselves, use ellegant dress and perfume more than men, since they want to please their husbands. They are kind and emotional since they care for the innocent children.
But... what if one is not called to marriage?
throughout the centiries the church has advised vowed women to dress plainly and in dark colors and to avoid using ornaments. They weren't mean to charm and attract anyone.
So, if a woman is going to dress plainly and in dark colors without using any ornaments, if she avoid all these feminie charm and "grace" and "air", what will become of all these gender roles?
If one is going to dedicate her time to prayer and works of mercy, then having a specific biological sex too, will be somewhat unimportant, since these works can be done by both men and the women.
The reason for asking this question is that I saw some online images of consecrated virgins living in the world, they were really masculine. I believe that I too am called to celibacy in the world. But how not to fall in the error of androgyny?