[ottbmare]

Just as an aside, how many, unknowingly, have confessed sins to a priest who was later found to have been abusing children? And does the average Catholic commit that despicable sin, or worse? I tend to think not.

The personal holiness or lack thereof is not the important issue in the Sacrament of Reconciliation, because you're not confessing to the priest as a man; he is acting in persona Christi, as Jesus. So whether he's a good guy or a holy saint or a child molester is irrelevant (though you might be surprised to learn how few priests are child-abusers compared to teachers and to Protestant clergy, contrary to what the hate-filled news media would have us believe).

[mitch5501]

"though you might be surprised to learn how few priests are child-abusers compared to teachers and to Protestant clergy"

We rarely get threads on the RF where those who profess Jesus Christ are pretty much "all of one mind"...and we know who doesn't like that don't we?

[IIntense]

So whether he's a good guy or a holy saint or a child molester is irrelevant...

After twelve years of Catholic education, I'm aware of the Church's teaching. I am not debating that.

As an example, if a priest was a known child molester, I doubt even you would choose to confess your sins to him, albeit he is acting in persona Christi.

There are perverts in all walks of life but people are not encouraged to confess to them.