Celibacy Is Appropriate for Priests’ Real Work

Traditionally, the military shoots deserters. Recent decades have witnessed many Catholic priests shedding uniforms and medals. Our church has not shot one. Each was mentally prepared as a young soldier destined to march into battle, to find himself “in charm’s way” as a celibate. Most, denouncing voluntary enlistment, joined a partner. Conscientious defectors continued to wave a flag of allegiance while faulting the war on evil. Others, blaming the system, lobbed self-serving fireworks.

Richard Sipe, the ex-monk of “Celibacy Requirement Doesn’t Work, Ex-Monk Says” (Jan. 10), is a lobber. I don’t want him shot, just known for what he is. As a 75-year-old American priest, after working 40 years in Asia as a language student, parish priest, university instructor and accredited foreign correspondent, I say celibacy does work.

Armies of heterosexual priests have battle scars they won’t brag about, private memories. They are humbly proud of their celibate service. Proud, too, of a knightly respect for women that transcends Hollywood and Hefner. I fondly recall many women friends of years past. I’m distracted by blatant cleavage and belly-buttons when L.A. beauties approach to receive the Eucharist at Mass in local parishes. I’d grown accustomed to Asian refinement in dress. Whichever -- I have no regrets.

I’m no more lonely than most widowers. I don’t need money for Viagra, condoms or spousal support. And I can still take an order from superiors to march, or ride my bicycle, without leaving a loving wife and kids behind. Celibacy works, for sufficient cause. That’s another story.

James P. Colligan

Los Angeles