I used to really struggle with this, but I am getting more comfortable. It may be a little cynical to say, but maybe men need the priestly vocation more than women do. God tends to call people, not only for what he needs them to do, but also to help them grow towards Him. Like St. Peter, who needed to become a better man, and also was needed to lead the flock.
Most women get a monthly reminder to stay humble, and that God is in charge. Also, pregnancy is a process that offers themselves up for service in the cause of life-giving. Maybe some men particularly need to know that God is in charge, and they are supposed to serve, with reverence. So they consecrate hosts and baptize, etc.
it’s true, as the Cardinal said, that if he were doing it, he could come up with a nice little religion. It just wouldn’t be real, and Jesus would have no interest in it. Our trade off is that we go for real, tangible evidence of Christ among us, and live with some unanswered questions.
Excellent post. Nothing can be added, or should be added.