That brings us to another question. Why would I want to become a priest in the first place? Today most priests are functioning primarily as parish managers and fund raisers (something a less apathetic laity could easily do) or as social workers of some degree (a role not in need of ordination). I see the primary role of the priest as the agent who confers (maybe not the right word) the sacraments to the laity..and in confession/or spiritual counseling, the priest should be there to help one with whatever spiritual struggle that is going on in one's life. How much of a priest's time is really spent in these capacities? I can't speak for any priest, not being one myself, but I really wonder how priests perceive themselves and their special role in the Church? I have a feeling that many do not really want to get down and dirty (I use that as an expression) in the confessional or in spritual counseling. It's safer (psychologically) being a manager or social worker. This is just my opinions and observations.