‘What is your argument for keeping mandatory clerical celibacy in place?’
What is your argument to eliminate it? Jesus was married to who? He was fruitful and multiplied how many times?
There are MARRIED CATHOLIC PRIESTS now.
Some Orthodox Catholics have married priests.
Some Anglican Priests that have come to the Roman Church are married as well. They are just as much Catholic Priests as those that where always Catholic.
The Church may decide to change this tradition in the future. They are free to do so as it was NEVER an article of faith or morals.
We might then actually be on the same page based on what you just wrote.
I know WHY the Church institionalized mandatory clerical celibacy in the Middle Ages. And they had good reason AT THAT TIME to do it. Question remains: Is it still necessary? If so, why?
Some seem to think I should be kicked out of my Church merely for raising the question. I hope you are not one of them.