On Sunday night I watched the first of two episodes of A&E’s new series God or the Girl. For those who haven’t heard about it, it is a docu-drama that follows four men trying to decide whether to join the Catholic Church as priests. I watched it hoping to get a little insight into what draws people to the priesthood, but I have to say that I was more than a little disappointed.

One young man, Steve, seems fairly certain that he wants to be a priest, yet he is terrified about telling his former fraternity mates about his decision. After he tells them, and no one bats an eyelash, he admits that if they hadn’t supported him he might of reconsidered his decision. Joe seems more concerned about hooking up with a girl named Anna at World Youth Day in German then making a decision about the priesthood. And Mike is obviously in love with his girlfriend Aly, which seems to annoy his mentor, Father Pauselli. Only Dan seems to have his mind made up about becoming a priest, but I can’t help but wonder if his motive to perpetuate the Church’s agenda rather than to further his spiritual life.

Sometimes I wish that there was some sort of Pagan/Wiccan priesthood, where those who were called to walk the path could find a way of life where they are totally immersed in the spiritual life and are available to counsel and teach others. I envision something like the Catholic priesthood/monastery/nunnery, but without the restriction on woman, marriage, etc. But by watching these young men, I have become aware that becoming a Catholic priest isn’t necessarily about spirituality. I have to admit that I am very surprised and more than a little disappointed.