[Siena Dreaming]

I don't think you get what I'm talking about.

I'm talking about the kind of self-discipline involved in relationship which a priest does not walk in. The kind of strength a man needs to discipline his desires, yet make a woman's desires come to pass.

A priest does not walk in these kinds of dynamics day by day so doesn't have the knowledge to counsel others. This is why the catholic clergy is confused and drawing effeminate men to the priesthood. If they'd allow real men in they would be a great example to families and social justice issues would not be so much to the fore IMO.

[SuziQ]

Celibate Catholic priests have been counseling married couples for centuries. Most do a very good job of it. Those who find themselves out of their depth can recommend other counseling to married couples, and even those who do believe they understand the problems could do the same.

Self discipline is so much more than dealing with sexuality, but dealing with one's own is more important than worrying about another's desires. There will always be priests who have difficulty with celibacy, for the same reasons that some married men have difficulty with faithfulness. We are fallen creatures, in need of constant help from the Lord to live out our vocations.