Catholic priest celibacy: Former Pope Benedict defends it in book

Former Pope Benedict’s new book supports celibacy for Catholic priests, in contradiction of Pope Francis’ remarks.

The Vatican has tried to downplay a split at the top of the Roman Catholic Church over whether priests should be allowed to marry.

Pope Francis is considering easing some restrictions on celibacy

But retired Pope Benedict has rushed to its defence in his new book, underscoring the divisions between  Catholicism’s progressive and conservative fronts.

 

Al Jazeera’s Neave Barker reports from London in the United Kingdom.