Theology of priesthood in an integral approach Development of the Church’s teaching

The current study is devoted to the development of the Church’s teaching on priesthood in dynamically changing historical circumstances. Some of them, especially the Reformation, posed a great challenge to the Church. The way of approaching its learning at that time may be helpful in finding solutions to current problems. The aim of this study is to deepen the understanding of the development of the Church’s teaching, historically conditioned and today overlooked. The research uses historical analysis of texts created by popes, ecumenical councils and some church writers on the subject of priesthood. Jean Galot’s inspirations turned out to be valuable here, especially his appreciation of continuity in the development process while using new solutions resulting from the current needs of the Church. This allows him to preserve Tradition and give a convincing response to today’s aggressive ideologies. The integrity of the approach means that the development of the Church’s teaching on common priesthood and ministerial priesthood as participation in the one priesthood of Christ is presented.