By Catholic East Texas - The role of priests is a well-established, biblical idea that precedes the advent of the Church. In the Book of Exodus, for instance, every family had its own priest, with the father taking on the role for his household. In this ancient understanding of priesthood, to be a priest meant primarily to offer sacrifice. Following the idolatry of the golden calf, the priesthood was restricted to the Levites. But did you know that the Church has restored this broad concept of the priesthood?