"Christ’s priesthood is surprising and unexpected: God calls those whom clericalism would overlook. Priests liberate others for their vital and particular vocations; deacons direct the church’s focus to the edges and ‘fold in’ those who are marginalised; bishops have oversight of the whole, ensuring the attention is always on Christ. This bishop rejoices in Simon Cuff’s refreshing vision of a healthy and anti-racist church, full of ‘broken and wobbly’ people, uniquely and equally called." -- Sarah Mullally, Bishop of London

"Fr Simon's book is a radical and persuasive approach to clericalism. His analyses are models of clarity, theologically scholarly and accessible. As a distinctive deacon myself, I welcome his rare and profound understanding of the diaconate with its powerful call to the margins, and its potential for challenging clericalism in the church." -- Gill Kimber, National Coordinator, Church of England Network of Distinctive Deacons 

"Fr Simon Cuff explains in urgent and clear language, how clericalism - the privileging of certain forms and expressions of vocation - undermines the health of the body of Christ and the integrity of its ministry. This book is essential reading for anyone who wants to understand the particular gifts the Church has been given, the barriers we must overcome to enable all people to serve as they are called to by God, and what is at risk if we fail to do so." -- Selina Stone, St Mellitus College, UK