While some theologians argue that a celibate priest is following the example of a celibate Christ, the question is open to interpretation.

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The church's insistence on a celibate priesthood is another practice that appears increasingly out of step today.

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He has defended the church's insistence on a celibate priesthood and its opposition to artificial contraception, abortion and women priests.

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He stayed celibate, rarely went to sea himself and was not a navigator.

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This has seen a succession of married priests coming over, so providing a ready supply of candidates to fill the growing number of vacancies, due to lack of celibate males, in the Catholic Church.

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