Stephen Fry is 'spiritually blind', head of Ireland's Presbyterian Church claims
The reverend's comments followed Stephen Fry's interview about his views on God
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.The incoming head of Ireland’s Presbyterian Church has accused Stephen Fry of "spiritual blindness" following Fry's comments on God.
Fry, a staunch atheist, last week stunned television host Gay Byrne in an interview for RTÉ One’s The Meaning of Life, when he explained what he would say if he was "confronted by God".
"Suppose it’s all true, and you walk up to the pearly gates, and are confronted by God,” asked Bryne. “What will Stephen Fry say to him, her, or it?"
The 57-year-old replied: “I’d say, bone cancer in children? What’s that about?
"How dare you? How dare you create a world to which there is such misery that is not our fault. It’s not right, it’s utterly, utterly evil.
"Why should I respect a capricious, mean-minded, stupid God who creates a world that is so full of injustice and pain. That’s what I would say."
Byrne asked a second question: "And you think you are going to get in, like that?"
"But I wouldn't want to," Fry insisted. “I wouldn't want to get in on his terms. They are wrong."
When he had finished explaining his answer, a visibly stunned Byrne said: "That sure is the longest answer to that question I ever got in this entire series."
The Rev Ian McNie said: "Until Stephen Fry's spiritual blind eyes are opened he will say what he has said, because he has said what he has said he has only confirmed what the Bibleteaches.
"I felt sorry for the man that his understanding of life is simply confined to the here and now and from his position of atheism there is no hope for the future."
Stephen Fry, who recently married his partner Elliot Spencer, is hosting the BAFTAs for the 10th time on Sunday 8 February.
Subscribe to Independent Premium to bookmark this article
Want to bookmark your favourite articles and stories to read or reference later? Start your Independent Premium subscription today.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments