There are exceptions to Catholic clerical celibacy for priests. I actually know one of the rare married Catholic priests out there. There's also priests who have children outside the guidelines of the church, and remain priests afterwards. It's nowhere near as important as the seal of confession within Catholicism.

It is true that giving absolution isn't required, but I'd give that one a pass. It's only the first chapter, we don't know yet what the logic behind that is.

Anyway, super interesting so far, I'm excited to read more.