Best of the Spectator

Earlier this year Dr Kurt Martens, Professor of Canon Law at the Catholic University of America, joined Damian Thompson on Holy Smoke to unpack what happens during a papal conclave. There was heightened interest in the process due to the film Conclave, which swept the awards season, but also because Pope Francis was hospitalised at the time. Despite showing some signs of recovery – including being able to meet world leaders such as King Charles III and J.D. Vance – Pope Francis died on Easter Monday.Here we reissue the episode with Dr Martens, looking at what happens when a pope dies, with a new introduction from Damian. Writing the cover article for the Spectator this week, Damian writes: ‘the next Vicar of Christ will face challenges that dwarf those that confronted any incoming pope in living memory. The Church is mired in doctrinal confusion; its structures of government are fragmented; sexual scandals have been hushed up at the highest level; and it is staring into a financial abyss’. What can we expect from the upcoming conclave? Produced by Patrick Gibbons.

John Curtice, a legendary pollster and professor, joins political editor James Heale to discuss the upcoming local elections in the UK. They explore the potential for a multi-party system, where parties like Reform UK and the Greens are gaining traction. Curtice highlights that even a small number of seats carries significant political weight. He suggests that we might witness the rise of new political dynamics, as successful contests by Reform could signal a shift away from the traditional two-party landscape.

On this week’s Spectator Out Loud: Owen Matthews reads his letter from Rome (1:21); Matthew Parris travels the Channel Islands (7:53); Reviewing Minoo Dinshaw, Marcus Nevitt looks at Bulstrode Whitelocke and Edward Hyde, once close colleagues who fell out during the English civil war (15:19); Angus Colwell discusses his Marco Pierre White obsession, aided by the chef himself (21:26); and, Sean Thomas provides his notes on boredom (26:28). Produced and presented by Patrick Gibbons.

Damian Thompson, associate editor at The Spectator and host of the Holy Smoke podcast, shares insights on the impending challenges facing the next Pope, highlighting doctrinal debates and financial woes. Fr Alexander Lucie-Smith, a Catholic theologian, joins to discuss the political intrigue of the upcoming papal conclave and the complex legacy of Pope Francis. They also tackle the ethical questions around AI recreating historical figures, like the resurrected footballer Lily Parr, and ponder the future of meaningful connections amidst rising technology.

Join Lamorna Ash, author of 'Don’t Forget We’re Here Forever,' as she investigates why Generation Z is turning back to Christianity amidst a supposed secular shift. She shares her own journey sparked by friends' dramatic conversions and the challenges of understanding faith in contemporary contexts. The conversation delves into personal crises that shape spiritual narratives, the search for community within faith, and how biblical texts are reinterpreted by younger generations embracing authenticity in their beliefs.

Roger Pizey is a baker, chef and one of the most influential pâtissiers in the UK. He started his culinary journey as an apprentice at La Gavroche under Albert Roux before taking on the role of head of pastry at Marco Pierre White’s Harveys, during the time it achieved three Michelin stars. He has since worked at a number of London institutions and now serves as the head of pastry at Fortnum and Mason.On the podcast he tells Liv and Lara about childhood memories of Manchester tart, what he learnt from Albert Roux and Marco Pierre White, and why Fortnum’s rose éclair is the perfect dessert.Photo credit: Michael Barrow

Deborah Mattinson, a Labour peer and seasoned political strategist, shares her fascinating journey from a Labour-supporting childhood to her pivotal role advising Tony Blair and Keir Starmer. She discusses the vibrant culture of 1980s advertising and reveals insights into focus groups that decode voter sentiments. They dive into the concept of 'hero voters' who can help Labour reconnect with disillusioned constituents and strategize against modern threats like the Reform Party. The conversation highlights her dedication to small businesses and women’s issues in the House of Lords.

Father Alexander Lucie-Smith, a Catholic priest and moral theologian, joins Damian Thompson to discuss the transformative legacy of Pope Francis following his death. They delve into Francis's complex embrace of social issues that polarized both liberals and conservatives. The conversation highlights how his Argentinian roots and connections to Peronism influenced his papacy. Lucie-Smith also reflects on the historical shift in the Church's governance and the challenges faced in precisely defining Francis’s legacy amidst his controversial decisions.

Calum Miller, the Liberal Democrats’ foreign affairs spokesperson and newly elected MP for Bicester and Woodstock, shares insights into the party's recent surge as the largest third party in a century. He discusses the impact of Brexit on his political ambitions and the serious intent behind party leader Ed Davey’s playful strategies. Miller also highlights opportunities for the Liberal Democrats to challenge Conservative dominance, the shift in voter allegiance, and the importance of collaboration and local focus as they gear up for upcoming elections.

Nigel Biggar, a moral theology professor at Oxford and Conservative peer, teams up with Mary Wakefield, Spectator columnist, to discuss the concept of 'faithful dissent' in Christianity. They celebrate historical figures like Thomas More, who stood against injustice, and ponder how contemporary Christians can challenge conformist leaders. Wakefield critiques modern Church bureaucratic language while finding common ground with former Archbishop Rowan Williams. Together, they explore faith's role in advocating justice, navigating complex moral issues, and the enduring power of unity.