Celibacy a vague old cross on priestly backs.(Column)

From: National Catholic Reporter | Date: May 12, 1995| Author: | Copyright information

Older Catholic priests neither gave a vow of celibacy in ordination nor received much instruction about celibacy in seminary. Celibacy became official Catholic policy only in 1139, when the Church no longer wanted to be financially responsible for the children of priests.

"Did you sign a document or make a vow to forgo marriage and sexual gratification for the rest of your life?"

When asked this question, most elderly diocesan priests, true believers and Vatican-friendly, will roll their eyes, shrug their shoulders and groan. These veteran clerics still have most of their marbles but ...

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