A local man is one step closer to becoming a Catholic priest. That in itself would not necessarily be out of the ordinary, but the fact that he's married with six children is.

When we think of Catholic priests, we think of a life of celibacy. It's why 49-year-old Scott Caton is rather unique.

"This provision was made for people in my situation," said Caton. "That would be former Protestant ministers who are married."

Caton became a Catholic 12 years ago. He was always happy with the choice, but his wife noticed something.

"She said you know one thing about my husband is that since he's become Catholic he's been very joyful in his Catholic life," said Caton. "But there's something missing about what he used to do."

They approached the Rochester Roman Catholic Diocese about a special, but extremely rare, exception for former Protestant ministers.

"It's really only a handful in the world on an annual basis," said Doug Mandelaro, communications director for the Rochester diocese.

Caton will be the first ever married priest in the diocese when he is ordained next year after nearly a decade of study. His request was approved by Pope Benedict himself.

"He's a well credentialed, thoughtful man," said Mandelaro. "As the Bishop I think said that he's going to be a good priest."

Next month, Caton will be ordained a transitional deacon and serve at Blessed Sacrament Church in Rochester.

"Protestants and Catholics alike were very receptive to this and said, you know, this is really something interesting and it really shows that you have the sincere desire to pursue it," said Caton.

Caton said he wants his ministry to be one of reconciliation. He said his background gives him a unique opportunity to help people.

"I could give you some advice as a parent about how to deal with children," said Caton. "Or I might be able to talk to children in the same way that I'm used to talking to my own children."

Caton is a professor of history at Roberts Wesleyan College and Northeastern Seminary. He plans to keep those jobs and will likely participate in Mass on a part-time basis.

"I know that God will, if he brings me to that point, he'll give me the grace to be able to do that well," said Caton.

It's an ongoing debate whether all priests should be allowed to marry. Caton said he is not looking to make a statement.

"I'm not going to be the poster boy for married clergy," said Caton. "That's not the intent in my heart of why I'm doing this."

Instead, it's a higher calling he looks forward to answering.

Caton has been married to his wife, Bonnie, for almost 28 years. They have five daughters and a son, who range in age from 26 to 7.

Caton said his journey to priesthood would not have been possible without his family's support.