This book is intended as a reflection on the priest and his ministry; not so much a theological reflection (although it is based on Theology), but rather an ascetic and pastoral one. It is written not with the priest in general in mind, but with specific priests who spend their lives, day after day, in cities, towns, and villages, dedicated to the care of souls, facing concerns that have much more to do with life than with theory. It particularly focuses on the humble, heroic, self-sacrificing, and suffering secular clergy who work tirelessly, pushing forward the barque of Peter.
The work closely follows the teachings of the Magisterium, particularly the Presbyterorum Ordinis decree from the Second Vatican Council, as well as the teachings of Saint Josemaría.