An Ignatius Press Reprint

Ignatius Press Reprints are identical in content with the most recent print edition of the original title. In order to keep important titles available at reasonable prices, we reprint them digitally in small quantities. We use high quality, acid-free paper, but the books are not smyth-sewn as is customary with our offset press print editions.

In this masterful and classic study, renowned Jesuit theologian Jean Galot explains the nature of the priesthood. He examines how the Jewish priesthood, the perfect priestly ministry of Jesus, and the role of the Twelve in the early Church helps us understand the ministerial priesthood in the Catholic Church today. The book also explores the spiritual life of priests, including the role of celibacy. It concludes with a discussion demonstrating that the male character of the ministerial priesthood is based on the will of Jesus and that it is not contrary to the dignity of women or their role in the Church.