There are a number of issues that need to be fully thrashed out in relation to the Irish Roman Catholic Church. There is a desperate need for an honest and caring organisation to be the caretakers of our religion.It should promote openness and compassion for all of its followers, regardless of gender. At present, it seems that the Vatican is unable to provide a contemporary solution.
Priests are forbidden to marry, yet they continue to be compelled to counsel engaged couples in the joys and pitfalls of marriage. Alarmingly, the union cannot go ahead without the completion of this course. It’s a basic fact that the only way one individual can fully understand another life situation is to experience it first hand. Logically therefore, a married priest could positively alter this scenario.
The full truth about the horrors caused by this organisation are still unfolding. It has been noticeable in recent months the growing number of young girls who are now serving on Church alters each Sunday next to their male counterparts. The job of altar boy or girl is certainly a rewarding one in terms of responsibility and self esteem but surely it’s too soon to presume that the dangers have been fully eradicated.
Women have always argued towards full priestly status in the Church’s ranks and are still being flatly refused. For centuries, they have been excluded from areas of certain industries such as construction and transport, to mention just two. Surely it is hypocritical for a group which places so much emphasis on vocation to totally ignore their needs.
Father Tony Flannery, founder of the Association of Irish Priests, has recently been exiled to a monastery for six weeks by the Vatican. He has been ordered to ‘pray and reflect’ following publication of his outspoken liberal views on celibacy, contraception and the ordination of women. There are a growing number of priests calling for change and it is only with public support that all opinions will find a platform to be aired. The powerful grip of the Vatican around the neck of the Catholic faith must be weakened.
