Priests’ gender and marital status priority, survey reveals
John Paul II opposed those breaks with Church tradition during his 26 years as pontiff, and the Vatican is unlikely to move quickly to alter the rules. Yet many Americans surveyed in an Associated Press poll say it is time for the Roman Catholic Church to embrace the modern era.
Professor of sociology at Catholic University Dean Hoge said: “There is unfinished business for the Church to address. Priest shortage and ordination. John Paul II didn’t want to touch it.” The sex abuse scandal that has rocked the church has left many Catholics and other Americans convinced the next pope must do more about predatory clergy. Eighty-six percent of all Americans and 82% of Catholics surveyed said greater steps were imperative.
