"The priesthood is not simply “office” but sacrament: God makes use of us poor men in order to be, through us, present to all men and women, and to act in their favour"

The statement reframes the priesthood from a functional category to a sacramental reality. “Office” suggests a task assigned, a role one performs; “sacrament” indicates an efficacious sign through which God communicates grace. By calling the priesthood sacrament, the emphasis shifts from human initiative to divine action: God is the principal agent, the priest the instrument.

The phrase “us poor men” underscores the paradox at the heart of Christian ministry: fragile humanity bearing divine treasure. It echoes the scriptural image of “earthen vessels,” where weakness becomes the place of God’s power. The humility implied here refutes clericalism. The priest’s dignity does not derive from status, expertise, or personal merit, but from being chosen as a conduit of Christ’s presence.

“Present to all men and women” widens the scope beyond the sanctuary. The priest’s sacramental identity is missionary, not club-like. He is configured to Christ for the sake of the world, called to make God’s nearness tangible not only at the altar but in the streets, hospitals, prisons, and the hidden corners of ordinary life. This presence is concrete in the sacraments, especially the Eucharist and Reconciliation, but also in preaching, counsel, and works of charity, where God “acts in their favour.”

To say that God acts “through us” implies both responsibility and consolation. Responsibility: the priest must be transparent to Another, cultivating holiness so that personal ego does not obstruct grace. Consolation: the efficacy does not depend on personal excellence; God’s fidelity is the ground of pastoral fruitfulness.

Finally, the vision is profoundly Christological and ecclesial. The priest acts in persona Christi, particularly as head and shepherd, so that the Church becomes a living sacrament of communion. The emphasis is not on managerial competence but on an ontological configuration to Christ that serves the People of God. The priesthood, therefore, is a sign that the Incarnation continues: God chooses to touch human lives through human hands.