[bakuninsbart]

I honestly think the acceptance of homosexuality in the mainstream is having a huge influence. A hundred years ago when society would tell you that what you want to do is wrong - and you might even believe it yourself - then choosing a life as a priest or monk was a serious alternative. - You would have a way to paradise and nobody would question you not marrying.

It is of course complete conjecture, although more and more info is coming out on the "homosexual lobby" in the Vatican.

[usrusr]

Absolutely. And I consider it a general principle, not limited to homosexuality at all: in preindividualistic times (pretty much coincides with preindustrial), if you were in any way unfit for the path laid out for you by birth, the monastery might be an option. Simple rules and low expectations (industrial armies often fill a similar role during peacetime). Getting into good terms with your imaginary friend would be mostly a rationalisation/excuse for bailing out.