Papal invite unlikely to lure many U.S. defectors: Celibate priesthood is one obstacle
Although many ex-Episcopalians in the U.S. identify with Catholic rules against ordaining women and noncelibate gays to the priesthood, the traditionalists heading their own rival Anglican organizations in North America say that few followers are likely to become Roman Catholics.
The surprise invitation October 20 from the Vatican pleased many Anglican dissidents for Rome’s recognition of their angst over changes in the Episcopal Church.