I was unaware there's a link between celibacy and pedophilia

Just wanna voice appreciation for a really good conversation here with lots of thoughtful posts. 

My take on the celibacy issue is that it is not a direct link to pedophilia, but it creates a self-selection problem in the priesthood.  The vow of celibacy creates, from day one, a preoccupation with and unrealistic expectation of spurning one's sexual predilictions.  That makes it a potential solution for all kinds of men who are otherwise sexually isolated, confused, and/or ashamed.  The priesthood throws all of those men together in a culture of secrecy and shame without any psychiatric or practical support and then inserts them into positions of absolute trust in schools and communities.  If I were TRYING to create an environment of sexual abuse and betrayal of trust, I don't know if I could design it better.

Removing the vow of celibacy is a step toward creating a more healthy conversation around sexuality in the clergy.  IMHO it would also help lead to women in higher positions of church authority, which is also a must to help solve this problem.

first you have to admit to the problem...

Agree.  Scott Drew should admit his sins and repent but he’s a raging hypocrite

  knowing you were going to post something stupid-so predictable-


       first you have to admit to the problem...

After being away for a few years for a variety of reasons, my wife and I just joined a church in our faith tradition, and man does it feel good to be back worshiping in community. Just looking around on a beautiful Easter morning, it was moving to see people unified in their beliefs despite their differences in probably multitudes of ways. And this church is active in its community, reaching out to serve in a variety of ministries. We are excited about our future there.