I am sure Father Kimmel means well but IMHO he beat the rule of celibacy that continues to weigh so heavily on our regularly ordained priests.

May all those considering the priesthood follow his footsteps in beating the system.
Realist former Convergent | 09.28.06 - 11:48 pm | #

Realist, even in the Eastern rite Catholic and Orthodox churches, married priests are not permitted to remarry if widowed, and married bishops, if I am not mistaken, are not allowed. If one doesn't exhibit an understanding of the theology behind these practices, or that of the apostolic origins of priestly celibacy, isn't he missing the point in a comment such as yours above?
Pertinacious Papist | Homepage | 09.29.06 - 7:23 am | #

oh puhleeze
rcfc | 09.29.06 - 7:45 am | #

Dr. Blosser,

I understand the rules. Al Kimmel skirted them.

Who is "rcfc"?
Realist former Convergent | 09.29.06 - 8:57 am | #

RFC,

If you think Fr Al "skirted" the rules, then it's apparent you really do not understand why the Latin Rite keeps the discipline of clerical celibacy as the norm, nor do your comments reflect an understanding of the reasons for the Pastoral Provision.

Any (Latin) Priest who finds clerical celibacy a burden rather than a blessing has their head screwed on the wrong way to be a Priest.
Chris Molter | 09.29.06 - 9:13 am | #

Chris M.,

Considering the activity of many of our priests, they indeed have their heads, etc. screwed/wired incorrectly.
Realist former Convergent | 09.29.06 - 6:12 pm | #

Dear Pertinacious Papist,

What is the theology behind priestly celibacy? Deacons may be married, and Orthodox priests are married. So what theology are you referring to?
Mike | 09.30.06 - 11:50 pm | #

RFC,

I'm in 100% agreement with you!
Chris Molter | 10.01.06 - 10:42 am | #

"What is the theology behind priestly celibacy? Deacons may be married, and Orthodox priests are married. So what theology are you referring to?"

The theology that is enfleshed in Jesus' teaching on "eunuchs who have made themselves eunuchs," and in St. Paul's doctrine in I Cor. 7.
Jordan Potter | 10.02.06 - 2:37 pm | #

With Al Kimel's blessing, I am now hosting comments on Pontifications posts at Sacramentum Vitae
Mike L | Homepage | 10.04.06 - 10:47 am | #

Jordan,

Just for completion of the eunuch comment, Crossan has concluded it was not said by the historic Jesus.

And Paul as do current Catholic orthodox theologians, speak to celibacy issues with no experience at being married. Paul's first century comments were also made in light of the soon to come second coming. During the continued wait, communication no longer requires a "slow boat to Rome".

And of course, our first Pope was legally married followed by many others that were not so legally married.
Realist former Convergent | 10.04.06 - 11:08 am | #