'My love is calling me': 37-year Catholic priest resigns

Andreas Unfried, a Catholic priest serving the St. Ursula community in Oberursel, has announced his resignation after 37 years of service. In a two-page letter addressed to Limburg Bishop Georg Bätzing, Unfried explained his decision stems from his inability to uphold the mandatory celibacy and sexual abstinence, known as 'Zölibat,' within the Catholic Church.

Unfried expressed his deep commitment to the Catholic Church and his priestly duties, stating, "Priesthood and religious service have always been a duty I performed with all my heart." However, he acknowledged that celibacy is a characteristic he cannot maintain. He revealed that he has been secretly living with the great love of his life for many years, crediting his partner's support for helping him endure the past 37 years.

Approaching retirement, Unfried stated he no longer wishes to hide his relationship. "He waited for me for a long time. I am grateful for that. Enough is enough. The love for the woman with whom I have shared my life for a long time calls me," he declared. Unfried intends to marry his partner after stepping down from his priestly role.

His decision has caused surprise within the Catholic community in Oberursel. Unfried acknowledged that his choice might disappoint many, expressing hope for eventual acceptance: "I hope that one day my decision will be accepted."