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Catholic World News

Australian archbishop concerned by prime minister’s atheism

July 29, 2010

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An Australian archbishop has expressed concern that the nation’s new prime minister, Julia Gillard, is an atheist. The prime minister assumed office on June 24.

“While there is no indication that the present prime minister will undermine the special privileges that churches enjoy, some wonder what the future will bring,” said Archbishop Barry Hickey of Perth. “Many Christians are concerned that someone who does not believe in God may not endorse the Christian traditions of respect for human life, for the sanctity of marriage and the independence of churches, church schools and church social welfare agencies.”

“In terms of the work that the Catholic Church does, that other churches and religious groups do in our society, I am a big respecter,” she responded. “And my history has been to be a big supporter.”

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• Posted by: Defender - Jul. 29, 2010 7:10 PM ET USA

  Aren't most politicians? We have "Catholics" who, by their words and actions, don't seem to believe in God.

• Posted by: garedawg - Jul. 29, 2010 6:30 PM ET USA

  At least she is honest about her lack of belief in God. I have more patience with frank atheists than politicians who profess a belief in God but do not show it in their lives.

• Posted by: St.John Neumann - Jul. 29, 2010 6:10 PM ET USA

  Why would anyone ever trust an atheist? As Doestoevskii put it so succinctly, "if there is no God, then all things are permissible." Those of us who remember the communists and fascists and their politics of extermination have a fairly good idea of what is comming. Of course, it has already begun with the extermination of infants and is gaining steam with the euthansia of the elderly. Even the Leaders of the Church seem oblivious to the warnings of Our Blessed Mother. And so it goes.