5. The priesthood is a gift which God Himself has bestowed upon mankind; a gift, the value of which can be compared to nothing upon earth, the usefulness of which is illimitable. Can we, ought we, to lightly esteem, or ever despise the priesthood, because here and there it may be found to contain an unworthy member?
The priesthood is indeed for us a magnificent fruit tree, the blessings of which are simply immeasurable. Can we, ought we. calmly to listen and look on, when this tree is reviled, because here and there a rotten fruit is found upon it? Is it on this account to be regarded as worthless or even injurious?
6. When some years ago cholera broke out in Catania, a beautiful town of Sicily, and every one who could possibly do so fled from the plague-stricken place, the priests, with heroic courage, remained at their post in order to bring aid and consolation to the sick and dying. And as they acted, so have all good and worthy priests of the Catholic Church ever acted, from time immemorial, in similar seasons of suffering, sorrow, and want; thus they proved themselves to be in very deed worthy ambassadors of Christ to suffering humanity.
Revere the priest whom God doth send
To be thy wise, thy faithful friend;
To guide thy footsteps on the way
Which leads to realms of endless day
