Father, Forgive Me: A Descriptive Case Study among Diocesan Priests who Left the Priesthood Ministry

Abstract

Using a qualitative study, specifically descriptive case study method, I determined the factors that made former diocesan priests decide to leave the priesthood ministry. Four former diocesan priestswere interviewed about the reasons of their departure; the psychological consequences of leaving the priesthood ministry; how they adjusted to the secular life; and how they viewed their future life as lay people. Results showed that conflict with Bishop,struggling with celibacy, disappointment/discouragement with fellow Priests, lack of spiritual/human formation, feeling of loneliness, lack of interest with the priestly life, realizing that priesthood is not fit for the person, unfulfilled career desire,having a relationship with a woman, and having a child or family were the various reasons why they left the priesthood ministry. The psychological consequences of their departure were experiencing social-stigma, difficulty in adjusting to the secular life, difficulty in looking for work/resources, and difficulty in living independently. Moreover, their adjustments to the secular life were rationalizing about the decision in leaving, identifying own experiences with others, accepting the consequences/risks,and receiving support from others. Lastly, they viewed their future life as being employed for a job, being dispensed/laicized, being married in the church, continuing membership in the church and being satisfied in a present life. Contrary topopular belief that involvement with a woman is the primary reason for leaving the priesthood ministry, this study highlighted other important underlying factors.