[metmom]

Nope; it’s not a doctrine or dogma that can’t change, it’s a discipline (an internal, transitory rule) which has changed back and forth over the centuries according to the needs of the time. If the Pope saw fit to get rid of it he could.

Then why do so many Catholics go ballistic when it is even suggested?

I think it would be the best thing going for the Catholic church as it would open up a whole pool of eligible men for the priesthood and go a long way to keeping a celibate priesthood from becoming a safe haven for pedophiles.

Just let the me decide whether they can handle the celibacy and make the decision themselves.

[Mrs. Don-o]

"Just let [them] decide whether they can handle the celibacy and make the decision themselves."

They do. Sheesh. Who else do you think makes the decision?

Look, metmom my friend, candidates for the priesthood go through YEARS of discernment before THEY decide to take vows of celibacy. They get far more preparation for celibacy than most of us get for matrimony.