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I do believe finances have something to do with celibacy as you've pointed out. Money and property were pretty much the reasons for the Church to demand celibacy on its' priests in the first place. Priests would pass away and leave their money or property to their heirs....which the Church had to put a stop to. I think any research of the history of the Catholic Church will show this to be true, as well as the claim that celibacy promotes a stronger service to God.

But as a practicing Catholic, I cannot in good conscience support celibacy for priests in this modern age. I really do think that married priests would indeed make for a stronger and better Church. Married priests would be able to relate better to their clergy. When I had marital problems several years ago, I saw one priest who was previously married (his wife sadly died of cancer at a young age). I can't even begin to tell you the help he gave me, if for no other reason than the fact that he KNEW what he was talking about through his previous lifes' experience. Would I have received the same counsel from a priest who's never had experience in being in a relationship with a woman? I can't say no for certain, but I'm highly doubtful that I would have.

To me, the entire celibacy issue is one that should have vanished years ago. It serves no place in the modern world. What it's done in fact, is create the climate the Church is facing now.

Before I get flamed into oblivion for my last post, allow me to add that celibacy could (or should) be allowed still for any priests who feel that path best for them.

But like I said, I do really think the Church would be vastly improved if priests were given the option to marry and have families, if they so wish.

Just my humble opinion..........