As a young priest Benedict XVI ‘called for the Church to investigate priestly celibacy’

[BusterMartin]

The practice of the Esatern Catholics is satisfactory: only celibate man can be bishops, but married men can be ordained for confessions and holy masses.

I have been aware of this for quite some time. However, one thing I’m not clear on is whether or not a married Catholic who switches rites (from, say, Latin to Byzantine) can become a priest in that Eastern rite. Anyone know the rules on that?

 

[BusterMartin]

Since you say generally, I imagine there are exceptions. Who would make that decision? And based on what criteria?

 

[laszlo]

I have been aware of this for quite some time. However, one thing I’m not clear on is whether or not a married Catholic who switches rites (from, say, Latin to Byzantine) can become a priest in that Eastern rite. Anyone know the rules on that?

Originally, and even when I was young, switching rites was not allowed at all, only to participate in the other rites. I believe switching rites (getting under the jurisdiction of the bishop of other rite) is accepted only in the US, and in the US married men are not allowed to be ordained to Easter rites neither, married priests are imported from Central Europe or elsewhere in East.