A Lowdown Christmas special with Rev. Richard Coles

Richard Coles is a man of many parts and many talents - a former rock star turned vicar, who inspired the BBC TV series "Rev" and continues to be a prominent figure in religious and media circles, presenting radio shows and writing thrillers. With Lowdown host Nick Cohen, Richard explores the declining role of Christianity in Britain, with discussions about the changing nature of religious practice and the tension between moderate and more politically charged forms of faith.

The pair talk about the relationship between religion and politics, particularly focusing on how Christianity is used as an identity marker and the challenges faced by institutions like the Church of England in addressing societal changes. Richard and Nick examine the current state of modern conservatism, discussing its shift towards destructive politics and the decline of the centre-right in Britain.

Declining Christianity in Modern Britain

Richard and Nick also discuss the declining role of Christianity in Britain, noting a drop from 71% Christian in the 2001 census to 42% in 2021. Richard explores the tension between those with a part-time faith who attend Christmas services and committed Christians who hold strong beliefs.

Christianity, Politics, and Social Change

Richard and Nick discuss the relationship between religion and politics, particularly focusing on how some people use Christianity as a marker of identity against liberalism and Islam. Richard explains that while many people affiliate with Christianity for social reasons, true faith involves transformation and challenge. The conversation then shifted to the Anglican Church's stance on same-sex marriage, with Richard noting that while the Church has tentatively approved blessings for same-sex couples, conservative elements are pushing back against this progress. They discuss the rise of post-liberalism in both America and Britain, with Nick suggesting that homophobia is a key driver of this movement, which Richard agrees was often true.

Conservative Church's LGBTQ+ Opposition

Nick Cohen and Richard Coles discuss the Conservative grouping within the Church of England, particularly Holy Trinity in Brompton, London,, which has opposed LGBTQ+ inclusion and embraces a pessimistic, ahistorical view of Christianity. They highlight the influence of figures like Paul Marshall, who owns media outlets critical of the Church of England, and connect this movement to broader right-wing ideologies. The conversation touches on how these groups have shifted rapidly, becoming increasingly hostile to LGBTQ+ individuals and embracing conspiracy theories.

Decline of Center-Right in Britain

Nick and Richard discuss the decline of the centre-right in Britain, noting how extreme positions attract more attention and funding, particularly from the American market. They highlighted the increasing polarisation and rancour in political discourse, comparing it to historical conflicts like the Wars of the Roses. Richard shared his experiences as a vicar, including conducting services like a "Blue Christmas" for those who find the holiday season difficult. They also discussed the challenges faced by the Anglican Church in reconciling its traditional views with the changing societal norms on issues like gay marriage. Nick expresses concerns about the future of institutions like the Church of England and the BBC, while Richard suggested that such institutions might be missed once they are gone.

The Rev. Richard Coles is an author, radio presenter and a former 1980's rock star - one half of the 1980's pop duo sensation - The Communards (with Jimmy Somerville) and, before then, Bronski Beat! Richard's latest thriller is Murder at the Monastery: A Canon Clement Mystery

Nick Cohen's @NichCohen4 latest Substack column Writing from London on politics and culture from the UK and beyond.

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