United States Catholic bishops debate priest ordination criteria

A report from the McGrath Institute for Ecclesial Life at the University of Notre Dame has highlighted significant internal debates regarding the training and ordination of priests in the United States.

Based on research by the Center for Applied Research in the Apostolate, the study examines how various church officials, including bishops and seminary rectors, evaluate candidates for the priesthood. A key finding involves candidates with deep same-sex attractions who maintain a commitment to the priesthood. The report notes that 22 percent of surveyed U.S. bishops expressed a willingness to ordain men in this situation, with 10 percent stating they are in complete agreement.

The research also emphasizes that celibacy should be viewed as a matter of integral human maturity rather than just sexual abstinence. It suggests that candidates should demonstrate stable continence for several months before advanced training and at least 12 months before diaconate ordination, while also prioritizing emotional stability and the capacity for healthy relationships.