Friends say that he studies both the Bible and the Koran daily, and much of his political philosophy has been influenced by the social teachings of the Catholic Church. He is a particular admirer of the maverick German theologian Hans Kung.Cough. Splutter. Kung is not known for leading folk into the Church. Plus:
Mr. Blair, whose views on a range of issues from abortion to stem-cell research are at odds with traditional church teaching, had "some way to go" on important moral issues.Yes. These stories are invariably accompanied --this piece being no exception-- by the description of Cherie Blair as
Cherie, a devout Catholic.I'm not passing judgment; many folks who are woefully misinformed consider themselves faithful. I simply note as a matter of fact that public support of abortion and contraception makes one, by definition, not devout. If the Blairs were to be converted on these matters it would be a matter of great rejoicing, but there's no indication whatsoever that they have been. Which may be why Downing St. is still saying A spokesman for Downing Street said last night:
"This story seems to circulate fairly frequently but, as we have said before, he continues to be a member of the Church of England."
Which is admittedly ambiguous. At the very least we can say that if Blair is interested in converting, he has yet a ways to travel ideologically speaking.
Update: See?
In an interview published by the London Times Magazine yesterday, Mr. Blair indicated his conversion may not be just around the corner.
Asked if he would convert, Mr. Blair said, "I don't want to talk about it. It's difficult with some of these things. Things aren't always as resolved as they might be."
