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"Ending celibacy has tremendous surface appeal: The culture of homosexuality now dominant at many seminaries and even some dioceses would be diluted, and the huge personal cost for straight men of forgoing marriage would be eliminated. " [Washington Times]
This "lifelong practicing Catholic" is confused. He acknowledges that one book states that 25-50% of Catholic priests are now gay (a lifestlye that is abhorrent according to canon law). Yet, he doesn't want to mess with celibacy since "it works." And trots out a statement by a Methodist minister that called a Catholic Priest because he knew the priest would be available in the middle of the night, and that he wouldn't have to worry about taking him away from his family.
I am not a Catholic. My Mother and brother converted to Catholicism as adults when they married Catholics. I also have looked at the history behind the celibacy requirement, and note that it had much to do with the cost of supporting a family by the church and the desire to make the church heir to any assets the priest might have. This was a long time ago, but thats the foundation.
We are sexual beings. A happily married person has one relationship into which he or she invests physical sexual intimacy. Such partners don't need to look outside the family for physical fulfillment and joy. Psychologically, our "needs are met" at home, in a safe and appropriate relationship.
But sexual energy for most individuals is like water pressure that builds. Not provided with an appropriate outlet, it will "find a release... somehow, somewhere." I don't believe that 25-50% of all Catholic priests are homosexuals. I believe that when faced with no other outlet for physical sexuality, 25-50% of priests may be turning to the only ones who understand their frustration... each other. I hate to say it, but this is not much different than in prisons where heterosexual men with strong libidos have same-sex experiences... because that it what is available.
For the priesthood, however, such actions are catastrophic. They are violating their vows. They are acting inconsistent with their public message. Thus, they lack integrity of the highest order. Hidden sin often leads to a downward spiral, and criminal acts such as child molestation.
Let me add further than many professions have requirements that take precedence over family life. The military, police, fire and rescue, medical professionals, and more. If priests are to be our spiritual leaders, are they unequipped to listen to God and follow His guidance as to how to balance work and family? If a priest is unable to do so, is he as qualified to be an example as one who is?
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