“It’s been a problem for a long time and it won’t be changed in one day. The main problem is that the priests are trapped in an old-fashioned system. They have the right to go out and have fun and interact with people. Being able to have a family is the main thing. Very dramatic changes are needed or there will be fewer people going to church and believing in God.”

Ricardo Guzman, Miami, planner, 32

“I think they’re doing enough. That’s my impression so far. The direction taken at the meeting in Vatican City was a step in the right direction, and it happened fairly quickly by Church policy standards. The scandal element is caused mostly by the press and by religions that don’t follow the Catholic practice.”

Charles Schaab, Miami Beach, retired, 56

“It’s ironic to me considering the Church’s stand on homosexuality – and then they have a problem within. I’m concerned about a witch hunt. Now they’re talking about keeping homosexuals out of the priesthood and it’s possible they’ll go after the ones already there and remove them. It’s the same old message: we’re the Church and we’re all-powerful.”

Lewis Jordan, Athens, GA, graduate student, 24

“This is not isolated to just the Catholic Church. They make it seem like only a Catholic problem. In any denomination or group there are going to be predators and child molesters. I don’t think celibacy is the problem. Look at the many child predators who are married and they still go out and harass kids.”

Mauricio Ron, Miami Beach, store manager, 36

“The people in the church are human. They feel the same things we do. They make mistakes because they’re human. I’m Catholic, but I agree with the Protestant approach where the ministers can marry. Celibacy should be optional. But I agree with the Pope that the Church can’t accept that behavior. Confidence in the Church is being lost.”