Independent Lens Season 12 Episode 8 The Calling, Part 1

The show Independent Lens, Season 12, Episode 8, titled The Calling, Part 1, is a fascinating exploration of the lives of young people who are called to become religious leaders. Unlike many other professions, the world of religious service is difficult to navigate, and it requires a specific set of skills and qualities to succeed. The episode introduces us to an array of young aspirants from different backgrounds, all of whom have taken different paths to answer their calling.

The first part of the episode focuses on four young people who have begun their journey to become religious leaders. Each of them has a unique story to tell, and we get to meet them in depth. There is a young African-American woman, Mary Catherine, who is inspired by the teachings of the Catholic Church to pursue a vocation to the religious life. She is currently studying to become a nun and hopes to devote her life to the church entirely.

Jonathan is a former punk rocker who became a Methodist minister, and he aims to make the church more inclusive to younger generations. We get to witness him preaching on a stage, his passion for helping people through faith is evident in every word he says. A gay man, Adi, has come out of the closet and suffered many persecutions from his family because of his sexual orientation. He now hopes to become a Rabbi and help others who are struggling with similar issues.

Lastly, there is Mohammed, a Syrian refugee who has come to Europe to escape the war in his home country. He dreams of becoming a Imam and helping refugees to cope with the aftermath of trauma and displacement. We see each of these four individuals as they navigate the unique challenge that comes with choosing a religious vocation. We also see how their personal experiences have helped shape their religious beliefs, and how their faith has helped them to get through some of the most difficult times in their lives.

The episode also highlights the differences between various religious institutions and their traditions. We learn about the Catholic Church, the Methodist Church, the Jewish faith, and the Islamic faith, and how each of them follows a different path towards becoming a religious leader. The show also explores the challenges that come with achieving a calling in these different faiths. The expectations placed on leaders, the difficulties in balancing religious work with personal life, and the stress of trying to live up to the expectations of others all provide a unique set of challenges that must be overcome.

Overall, the episode is a powerful look into the world of religious vocation. It is an insightful exploration of the challenges and rewards of becoming a religious leader, as well as an in-depth look at the faiths that inspire people to work in this field. The show's unique perspective and deep dive into the experiences of real people make it an enlightening and enjoyable viewing experience. It is a must-watch for anyone who is interested in the role that religion and faith can play in people's lives.