German bishop: Discipline of celibacy can attract those with ‘abnormal sexuality’
March 15, 2010
A German bishop said in a March 12 radio interview that while the discipline of clerical celibacy is not the cause of abuse scandals, “the celibate lifestyle can attract people who have an abnormal sexuality and cannot integrate sexuality into their lives. That's when a dangerous situation can arise.”
Hamburg Auxiliary Bishop Hans-Jochen Jaschke (whose name is misspelled in the Reuters coverage of the story) added that “just because one doesn't live out one's sexuality doesn't mean it's been turned off. No, I must see how I react sexually and learn to deal with it.”
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Posted by: Minnesota Mary -
Mar. 15, 2010 2:05 PM ET USA
The Roman Catholic priesthood attracts homosexuals because it's a good place to hide, and its three squares a day and no heavy lifting. The screening process is inept. That's what the problem is.
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Posted by: adamah -
Mar. 15, 2010 12:53 PM ET USA
I presume he's speaking for himself.
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Posted by: -
Mar. 15, 2010 8:37 AM ET USA
I've never understood this "integrate sexuality into their lives" language, though I often hear it. Does it mean something other than just self-mastery, or the control of concupiscent impulses with the aid of grace? If so, what?
