Although attendance at religious services has been declining in America for decades, young people still feel called to a life of faith. This PBS-aired documentary profiles seven such men and women, representing Muslims, Catholics, evangelical Christians, and Jews. The film depicts their struggle to balance individual spiritual needs with personal situations, as well as the requirements of their families and the wider community. For example, a Hispanic priest wonders if he can keep his vow of chastity; a young woman tries to land a preaching job in the African Methodist Church while also coping with the demands of being a single mother (when money gets tight, she resorts to working in television commercials); and an Islamic prison chaplain is subject to harassment and bias after 9/11. Also shown are two rabbis dealing with quite different challenges—one trying to revitalize a Jewish community in New Jersey and the other traveling far afield in order to pursue social justice. The Calling follows these individuals at school, home, and work, as they utilize new techniques to connect with the faithful (one minister uses music and rapping, while a rabbi attracts new members with novelties like a “shofar blowing contest”). All express moments of doubt and hesitation about their suitability for the profession. The portraits are illuminating and sometimes moving, although the overlapping narratives—particularly early on—create some confusion. Overall, however, The Calling nicely illustrates a cross-section of American religious life. DVD extras include deleted scenes. Recommended. Aud: C, P. (S. Rees)
The Calling
(2011) 2 discs. 240 min. DVD: $29.99 ($49.95 w/PPR). PBS Video. ISBN: 978-1-60883-385-6. Volume 26, Issue 3
The Calling
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