Catholics Have an Unsolvable Problem

I read the most thought provoking article recently written by a devout lay Catholic. He discussed the circumstances of clergy and the resulting sexual misconduct. It starts with the way the church is organized and how it is run.

The life of a priest is boxed in in several ways. First, there is the requirement of celibacy. What we might call the natural or common desire to share an intimate life with someone is blocked off.

The professional occupation of being a priest is not like most others. The priest is at the mercy of his Bishop, not only for a paycheck, but often for living quarters. He can be fired without cause at any time.

Many of us have had bosses that were impossible to work for. Priests no doubt find this on occasion also. But, the priest has sold his soul and has few alternatives to look for another job or another boss. He might be stuck living with other priests and not able to discuss his frustrations about a Bishop. Certainly, he has no wife to vent to.

Then, there is the issue of how Bishops are selected. In a past time, according to the writer mentioned above, local priests who were popular with local parishes were often chosen to be the next Bishop. Now Bishops are chosen by the Pope and his staff. It is no wonder there are so many now being named as partners in the crime of hiding pedophiles. Becoming a Bishops is not about being a good parish priest but is by schmoozing in higher circles.

The Pope talked early on about clergy becoming more centered on the lives of those in the pews. He came to Rome from the outside. I think he now sees that the changes he wanted will forever by blocked by clergy who like things that way they are.