[gcruse]

The idea of the nun as the bride of Christ is founded
on the notion that they must give up all to follow him,
 including the joy of having children.

Is it a case of do as I say, not as I have done?  Consider:

1 Cor 9:5 Don't we have the right to take a believing wife along with us, as do the other apostles and the Lord's brothers and [Peter]?

[RobbyS]

And if they make the same choice that Paul made? Was Paul trying to buy his way into heaven by not marrying? Or was he saying that there is a higher calling than family and children? Our Lord himself says who his real family is.