[Conservative til I die]

Ah, but married men DO offer Mass, preside over the Sacraments, and give homilies, don't they? The mere existence of the "converted Protestant" exception casts serious doubt on the legitmacy of the celibacy requirement, doesn't it? Are the parishes that get the married Priests getting a "sub-standard" product? Is it just expediency by the RCC, reacting to the Priest shortage?

You may want to get clue one about how our celibacy rules work. And btw, for most mainstream Catholics, the "Protestant exception" does not make us doubt the "celibacy requirement". The Latin Rite's discipline of celibate priests reflects our long-held custom and culture. That a few Lutheran and Anglican converts are allowed to be married (but not marry afterwards) does not upset us in the least. Their background justifies such an exception. Just like we aren't bothered by our Eastern Rite brothers allowing a married priesthood, since it reflects their long-held tradition.

The only ones with issues are liberal Catholics already against celibacy and pushy, nosy, annoying, irritating, ignorant, obnoxious Protestants.

[armydoc]

You may want to get clue one about how our celibacy rules work.

What aspect of your celibacy rules do you believe I misunderstand?

And btw, for most mainstream Catholics, the "Protestant exception" does not make us doubt the "celibacy requirement".

Yes, I am aware that most Catholics are very comfortable with contradiction.

That a few Lutheran and Anglican converts are allowed to be married (but not marry afterwards) does not upset us in the least. Their background justifies such an exception.

Their background as what, apostates? An apostate earns an exception that a lifelong Catholic doesn't? Yes, you are right. Ignore my initial question. I don't "get a clue" about how this aspect of your celibacy rules work.

Just like we aren't bothered by our Eastern Rite brothers allowing a married priesthood, since it reflects their long-held tradition.

They also have a long-held tradition of denying Papal authority. Apparently that "bothers" the RCC enough to maintain the schism!

...pushy, nosy, annoying, irritating, ignorant, obnoxious Protestants.

Nice. A very Christian witness to all observing. That may represent the Catholic attitude towards the discussion/debate of doctrinal differences, but not this Protestant's. I enjoy debate and find it can be fruitful for all involved if conducted in a respectful way. I draw the line at mild sarcasm, which I often use to drive home a point. If it was hurtful toward you, I apoligize in advance. I pray for God's blessings on you and your family.