The Catechism of the Summa - Tertia Pars - XLII. OF THE SACRAMENT OF HOLY ORDERS; OF PRIESTS, BISHOPS, AND THE SOVEREIGN PONTIFF; AND OF THE CHURCH, MOTHER OF SOULS (B)

(B)
Has the priest a special character which distinguishes him from other men in the Church of God?

Not only the priest but all the members of the ecclesiastical hierarchy have a certain special character impressed upon their soul when they receive the sacrament of Orders. This character is more marked in the major orders, and more still upon those who have received the priesthood, to whom is given the power to consecrate the Body and Blood of Jesus Christ, and to remit sins.

In truth then the faithful owe all to the priest as regards the boons of grace and salvation that are attached to the sacraments?

Yes, with the one exception of the sacrament of Confirmation, which is ordinarily reserved to the bishop. It is the priest who gives to the faithful the sacraments which are ordained to the welfare of their individual life, viz., Baptism, the Holy Eucharist, Penance, and Extreme Unction. It is also the priest who has that supreme power of making really present among men and of offering up in sacrifice the Body and Blood of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Is it not also the priest who gives to the faithful that inestimable benefit which is the knowledge of the mysteries of the Christian religion, and of the truths of salvation?

Yes, it is the priest's office and duty to teach them all these truths.

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