The media's interest in the appointment is a sign of the still-powerful Christian heritage of Britain. And the role of the Archbishop of Canterbury, with his London residence just across the river from the House of Commons, is a potent symbol of that.

What is also clear, however, is that this Christian heritage appears to be growing more distant. One reporter commented that the new archbishop was not, for example, on the front page of today's Daily Mail whereas 20 years ago he would have been. The interest in Archbishop-designate Welby's appointment has not grabbed the attention of the popular press although perhaps if the Archbishop of York, John Sentamu, who has written a column for the Sun on Sunday, had been appointed, that might have been different.

There is also a noticeable decrease in the number of specialist reporters covering religion. Bishop Welby handled his first encounter with the media impressively.

Read it all.

Filed under: * Anglican - Episcopal • Archbishop of Canterbury • * Culture-Watch • Media • Religion & Culture • * International News & Commentary • England / UK

1. MichaelA wrote: “The interest in Archbishop-designate Welby’s appointment has not grabbed the attention of the popular press although perhaps if the Archbishop of York, John Sentamu, who has written a column for the Sun on Sunday, had been appointed, that might have been different.” That’s probably true, but I expect +Welby is well aware that the success or failure of his tenure will depend upon other issues! “...he gave straight replies to the curve balls that were thrown at him. One reporter asked him, ‘Do you really believe in the Virgin Birth?’ He replied: ‘I can say the whole of the creed without crossing my fingers’.” Amen! One can only applaud such a straight-forward affirmation of Christian truth. November 11, 6:28 pm | [comment link]

2. Big Vicar wrote: The Daily Mail? Perhaps a Beverly Hills luncheon with Brad Pitt, or a dalliance with one or another Kardashian could have landed +Welby that coveted coverage. November 12, 12:01 am | [comment link]

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