I was raised Catholic. I still have a lot of love for the church, but as an atheist/agnostic I cannot pretend anymore.

I talk about the state of the Catholic church with my mother (very devout, but understanding) a lot.

I don't think that anyone could not help but be horrified by the perverted priest situation. Molesting children is completely disgusting and wrong. The Catholic church's attempt to shuffle blame and pay out victims was shameful.

However, as much as I feel those stories needed to be told, I wonder why other denominations have not been highlighted. There have been many cases of Lutheran clergy molesting children, but without the huge furore. I'm wondering if there's a reason for that.

How do you feel about allowing priests to marry? My mother is all for it, and she also predicts the American Catholics will succede from the Vatican on other issues such as birth control. I'm conflicted about allowing priests/nuns to marry, because I think it elevates the level of committment. I guess I'd just hope that people would still opt for celebacy even if it wasn't required, as I think that's a special level of committment.