Monica, insightful as usual. Some folks say that without access to priests salvation is impossible, since only priests have access to God and can get folks to heaven. IMHO this is bizarre to say the least. I know a lot of folks who are much closer to Christ and more Christ-like than I am. If access to priests is such a requirement, then a lot of good folks don't have a chance.  This does not seem much like the Jesus of the gospels.

Pope Francis has spoken out against clericalism, and he said sometimes it is the people themselves, not just priests, who will not let go of it. While we might need some form of priests, in the sense of leading in prayer, etc, we do not need the clerical caste. Many small groups choose their prayer leaders themselves in different ways, and it seems to work well. 

IMHO the basic question is what does it mean for me/us in my/our particular circumstances to be a disciple of Christ.  This is a good question always, but especially these days.