Flannery Urged End to Celibacy Rule

By Colm Kelpie
Irish Independent
April 7, 2012

http://www.independent.ie/national-news/flannery-urged-end-to-celibacy-rule-3073931.html

FR Tony Flannery has not been shy in expressing his opinions about the need for reform in the Catholic Church, writes Colm Kelpie.

His liberal views include calling for an end to the celibacy rule and opening up the church to lay people and women.

Here is a sample of some of Fr Flannery's thoughts:

- "Many of us priests are very frustrated with the way the Vatican conducts its business."

- "To hear someone in the position of the Taoiseach speak so strongly, so eloquently, and with such dignity, in challenging the Vatican was good."

- "Many reforms are needed in the church, and there is little or no discussion allowed at any level."

- "We cannot have any event (the Eucharistic Congress) dominated by a phalanx of mitre-wearing bishops surrounded by large groups of clergy."