Best of the Spectator Holy Smoke: how transformative has 2025 been for Christianity?
Dec 24, 2025
Join The Rev'd Fergus Butler-Gallie, an Anglican priest and bestselling author; Fr Alexander Lucie-Smith, a Catholic parish priest and moral theologian; and journalist Fleur Meston, an evangelical commentator. They dive into the transformative events of 2025, dissecting Pope Leo XIV's enigmatic leadership and the notable appointment of Dame Sarah Mullally as Archbishop of Canterbury. The trio debates the political co-option of Christianity, the quiet revival among the youth, and pressing pro-life issues, revealing the complexities of faith in contemporary society.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
A Quiet, Unexpected Papal Shift
- Pope Leo XIV has surprised observers by combining theological moderation with politically left-leaning signals.
- His quiet, considered style contrasts with his predecessor's outspoken manner and calms many Catholics.
Restraint Over Off-The-Cuff Pronouncements
- Fergus Butler-Gallie praises Pope Leo's enigma and deliberative approach as a corrective to impulsive policy-making.
- He values the Pope's restraint and the return to considered statements over off-the-cuff pronouncements.
A Priest's Euphoria At The Inauguration
- Father Alexander Lucie-Smith describes his personal euphoria on seeing the new Pope on the balcony.
- He says that feeling of being 'commossa' and uplifted has persisted since the inauguration.