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To: ELS; neocon
...for centuries the churches of Western Christianity have been seen by both men and women as belonging to the feminine sphere of life, just like nursing, cooking, and the care of small children. Consequently, men who are attracted to careers in the Church often have a weak sense of masculinity, have difficulty dealing with men and therefore prefer to deal mostly with women, and have personalities that tend to pick up a feminine savor; they are, in short, more or less effeminate.
I haven't read his book, but centuries? I can see decades (as in, since Vatican II). I realize it's anecdotal, but the priests I know who were ordained before VII are not effeminate.
If I understand what he is referring to correctly, in many cultures it has long been a custom for the women and younger children to go to Church while the men and older boys relax outside or elsewhere. This is most certainly not a post V2 thing. I know many priests who were ordained before V2. Some are effeminate, some are not. I also know many post V2 priests. Some are effeminate, some are not.

patent  +AMDG

79 posted on 03/29/2002 12:04:24 PM PST by patent
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To: patent;neocon;Straight Vermonter
patent, your point is well taken. I would like to learn more about the cultural customs you mentioned. I stated up front that my impression was anecdotal. I just think the author is painting with a very broad brush. I like to think (idealistically, I'll admit) most men pursue the priesthood because they were called by God and want to serve Him. Their personalities are irrelevant to the decision. It's about Him and His will, not them and their will.
91 posted on 03/29/2002 2:41:50 PM PST by ELS
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