We respect priests in the Church and the Bishops and Metropolitans because they are fathers in the church, because of their priesthood and because they are stewards of God (Titus 1:7). We also respect them because they are stewards of God’s mysteries (1 Cor 1:4) and because of their position. As was written in Malachi, priests are prophets of the Lord of hosts, and the law is requested from their mouths. We also respect priests for their age, service in the Divine sacraments, and God’s assignment of the service of teaching to them (1 Tim 5:17). The Bible in Hebrews 13:17 says: “Obey those who rule over you, and be submissive, for they watch out for your souls, as those who must give account.” (H.H. Pope Shenouda III)