Global debate gets underway over married Catholic priests

BERLIN — Germany’s Catholics reacted enthusiastically when bishops from across the Amazon called for the ordination of married men as priests to address the clergy shortage in that region. Such reforms have been pushed for decades by many in Germany who hope it can lead to the liberalization of centuries of Roman Catholic tradition.

“The question of whether we still have enough priests who live in celibacy and can fulfil all the tasks needed in the community is one that needs to be asked,” said Karin Kortmann, vice-president of a powerful German lay association.

There is resistance elsewhere for the proposal, however, with the conservative Catholic establishment making sure its voice is heard as Pope Francis prepares his own document that could determine whether married priests and female deacons eventually become a reality in the Amazon.

The Associated Press