Austrians support priests' call for reform: Survey

Editor: Actually, the poll is almost directly contradicted by this poll. Most Austrians think this effort, being promoted in the Press almost daily, is a sham.

The following article paints a wistful picture of Austrian Catholics fed up with the Roman Hierarchy and ready to rebel alongside the consensus inspired two hundred or so enemies of the Church.

VIENNA - A drive for reform by Austrian priests, urging the ordination of women and an end to celibacy, is meeting with widespread support, according to a new survey published Monday.

A total 71.7 per cent of Austrians found the initiative "fair and adequate," with 64.7 per cent saying they would even sign a "call for insurbodination" launched in June, according to the Oekonsult polling institute.

The so-called "Priests' Initiative," signed by at least 200 clergymen, wants women and married individuals to be allowed to be ordained as priests, an end to the celibacy rule and the right for laymen to preach.

Austrians support priests' call for reform: Survey