I believe the celibacy requirement was tool implemented by the Church in the 12th century as a way to avoid the
willing of Church property to the heirs of its then priests.
In this era of "returning to one's roots", it may not be a bad idea.
Everybody else has agreed that resigning is the best thing, and hopefully repent over such obvious bad judgement.
Are you listening, Bernie? Or sticking your head in the sand, yet again?
Why is this any of Bush's business?
In fact, he should keep his nose out of it. As should all the other government buttinskis, especially Attorney General Reilly of Massachusetts.
Priestly celibacy has its advantages even today. I read an article a few months ago about how various clergy members carried out their duties in Eastern Europe during the Cold War. The article made a very interesting point -- the members of the Eastern Orthodox clergy were able to resist the Communist governments as well as the Catholic clergy was, but once these governments started pressuring their families the Eastern Orthodox clergy abdicated in the face of the pressure.
As a result, the Catholic Church in Europe became the sole pillar of strength against Communism after World War II.
Since when did you decide that you would speak for me with your "everybody." I think he should stay the course, and weather the storm that has been brought on by those who hate the church and would see her destroyed by attacking the sacred priesthood without which the Church cannot exist.
And keep Bush out of it.