KOCHI: Times have changed now and the clergy should have a healthy communication lines with the church leadership so that they can leave priesthood and celibacy if they want, says Indulekha Joseph, activist of Kerala Church Action Council. Ms. Joseph who revolted against exploitation of women in the Church in the name of sacrament of confession stressed the need for reforms in the Church in the wake of recent incidents.
"In a highly-sexualised modern world of internet and social media, observing clerical celibacy can be tough," she told DC. "It is a fact that when restraint and abstinence become tougher, the frustrations of celibate life lead to sexual abuse. Hence, the clergy should be allowed to opt out of celibate life and lead a normal life for which Church should have rehabilitation system."
Unlike a member of the civil society, the clergy enjoy privileges, benefits and respect in the name of observing celibacy. So, they are bound to comply with it, which is the part and parcel of the priesthood life, according to a major section of the laity. "Consensual sex between two adults is not a crime, though it invites adultery in case of married persons. But, in case of priests, violation of celibacy is serious offence as per Canon Law. So, Church should take strict action against the accused," added Ms. Joseph.
On the Church's attempts to save its face through survivor - shaming campaigns, she said that no laity will dare question such heinous acts of the powerful Church, except a very few as everyone wants favours from it. "Once entered into the system, it is not easy for nuns to raise voice against abuse or come out of it. So, the argument on why the nun kept silence for nearly two years is of no significance," she said.
