Thursday, March 04, 2004

St. Cloud priests want discussion of optional celibacy

I have not seen the letter yet.
This article may say enough, however.
Thirty-seven priests in the Diocese of St. Cloud are asking a national bishops organization to discuss optional celibacy for priests.

"This is not trying to be divisive, we're just wanting to have discussion take place for what we feel is the health of the church and the health of the priesthood," said the Rev. Ron Weyrens, a priest at the Church of St. Joseph in Waite Park.

It's still a concern for Weyrens, as is his belief that the call to the priesthood is not limited to celibate men.

"Married men, married women, celibate women, there are a lot of people being called," he said. "We're not really being open to who the spirit is sending us as priests."(my emphasis)
Now we may see the real crux of the issue for Weyrens. The priesthood needs to opened up to anyone who THINKS they have a calling. Pay no attention to the unchanging doctrine of the Church that only males may be ordained...Why no, let us be moved by the 'spirit'! Unfortunately, some are willing to be led by any 'spirit' unless, or course, it's the Holy Spirit!

Where did these priests receive their doctrinal formation? Or did they?

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