Sir, – In its concern about the declining position of the Catholic Church in Ireland, The Irish Timessuggests consideration of "an end to celibacy and acceptance of married priests, and, eventually, the ordination of women to the priesthood" (Editorial, December 17th).
A male priesthood is a doctrinal position and to compromise on it would more likely intensify the decline of the church, as is evidenced in other mainline Christian churches that have opted for the ordination of women.
However, the policy of celibacy is prudential, not doctrinal.
Some think the decline of vocations could be rectified by dropping the requirement of celibacy. However, even if it were removed, it seems unlikely that many young men, aspiring to be married and have families, would give much thought to the very poorly compensated profession of the priesthood.
Furthermore, congregations, reportedly sparing as it is in their contributions to the church, would be even less generous if they were expected to support a wife and the family of their priest.
On the other hand, thought should be given to the ordination of already married men either near the end of, or ready and able to resign from, their secular careers.
I would think that a maximum age of eligibility for ordination should be set at 70, if for no other reason than to put at ease any suspicion that I am seeking such myself. – Yours, etc,