Celibacy blocks path to priesthood

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When a priest is ordained he must take four vows including the vow of chastity and it is this vow that keeps so many Native people away from the ministry, says Father Cliff Sinclair.

"It has been our tradition for many years to raise a family," he says, adding that the vows of poverty, perseverance and obedience are part of the Native tradition.

Sinclair says he has needed his vow of perseverance, especially in his ministries in Fort Vermilion and Canoe Lake in Saskatchewan where he is presently situated.

The atmosphere at the small community is a constant family feeling and the people "will give you the shirt off their back to help out."

Sinclair was Metis-born and raised in a family of 10 sisters and four brothers in the Slave Lake area; he is also the brother of former MAA president Sam Sinclair.

Before entering the ministry he was a forest radio operator ? working with brother Sam. He also worked for the Slave Lake Friendship Centre as a milti-cultural instructor as well as teaching Cree at a local school.

In 1979 he entered the Kisemanito Centre where Native people train for the priesthood. After five years at the centre he was placed in Fort Vermilion before moving to Canoe Lake.

Sinclair was very excited about the Pope's visit and felt his trip had been worthwhile.