He loses his temper, he worries, he gets sad. He also encourages others, shows faith, shares the Lord's love, and rejoices in knowing and serving Christ. He is also balanced by other members of the parish staff, especially a nun whose faith is far more mature. Indeed, she is the one who really keeps the parish operating smoothly and gives it tremendous spiritual help. A kind word here, a loving rebuke there, a dare to love more, live more, and trust God more to everyone.
Dramatic situations are also realistic.
I find the show easily the most mature, spiritual and original on television. In early October 1997, I was asked by an ardent opponent of the show to send a letter to the ABC network demanding it be taken off the air. I hadn't seen the show yet. My friend urged me to, and then to send the letter. I simply thought it was the most direct, powerful, honest Christian programming that has ever been on tv.