[sinkspur]

The experience of the Protestant churches is instructive. Many of these denominations are hard-pressed to find sufficient numbers with "the call," as well. Yet, they may marry.

The Protestant experience definitely shows that there is a concern in all denominations with materially supporting a minister and his family. There are no shortages of men who would serve a Highland Park Presbyterian Church in Dallas, for instance; there are fewer men willing to accept a call to a rural church with 600 people in attendance at Sunday service.

I don't know what the answer is. I don't think the ministry, generally, is viewed as a satisfying life in America today, regardless of the denomination. Perhaps its due to the better-educated laity, who often can do a better job of teaching than the priest or minister can, and these people intimidate men who thought they were entering a life where their congregations would defer to them.

That's why I think celibacy at least ought to be discussed. Either it will emerge from such discussions stronger, and Catholics will embrace it more confidently, or there will be changes made.

But, this present dissatisfaction of many older priests, who are being worked to death and must forego any kind of retirement because there simply is no other alternative, will only get worse before it gets better.

[sitetest]

Dear sinkspur,

"That's why I think celibacy at least ought to be discussed."

I think that's what we're doing right here. I also think the DISCUSSION is a good thing.

It is appropriate to take the time, and lay out explicitly the worthy arguments in favor of celibacy. If people wonder why celibacy is a good thing, then the questions ought to be asked, the folks who would wish celibacy be entirely optional should say their piece. And those who will defend the discipline should respond.

And in the end, we will all follow the discipline laid out for us by the Catholic Church, submitting to her rightful authority.


sitetest