Archbishop’s ‘ridicule’ draws reaction
Dagupan Archbishop Emeritus Oscar Cruz speaks as if he knows the truth. He ridiculed the 26 women who had the courage to approach Pope Francis and present their problems to him (“You want married priests? Give more,” Front Page, 5/21/14). The women suggested that celibacy for priests be made optional. Personally I believe that Francis is open to this idea, but Cruz says that this will not happen.
Why not? Is being celibate better than being married? St. Paul once said: Qui potest capere capeat (He who can take it, let him do it). Realty has shown that many priests cannot take it. As Cruz says, celibacy is a law that has been made for reasons of discipline. According to him, the Filipino is by tradition and custom more macho than anything else. Look who is talking here.
It is very evident that there are many priests and bishops who are gay. For me, there is nothing wrong with being gay, but this may be one reason Filipino men feel attracted to the priesthood, and that is wrong and dangerous. I believe there are many men who are qualified to be a priest but obviously not prepared to be a celibate. He who can take it, let him do it.
—ARNOLD VAN VUGT,
