Healthy sexuality

I appreciate Greg Bullough's reply to my letter regarding celibacy and child sexual abuse (NCR, Sept. 28). He gives a sensitive and understanding presentation of how sexual immaturity and maladjustment can lead to choosing celibacy and the subsequent ways for responding to it within the clerical system. His final comment that "celibacy may not be the direct cause of sexual exploitation of children by clergy" is in line with my original point. It is sexual immaturity, insecurity and maladjustment among other things that leads to sexually abusing children.

Many men in this predicament choose to marry, remain single, or become sexually active with adults. Many seminarians and priests with these vulnerabilities do not sexually abuse children.

I still contend that these difficulties dealing with one's sexuality, among other things, lead to sexually abusing children, not a commitment to celibacy. Perhaps NCR could feature articles on healthy sexuality as well as on what contributes to sexual abuse of children.

LISA REARDON

Washington

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