The leader of Roman Catholics in England and Wales has complained of “Christophobia” among the country’s opinion-formers.
The Archbishop of Westminster, Cardinal Cormac Murphy-O’Connor, said ordinary peoples’ desire for spiritual truth was not reflected by those who shape society.
He called for a “moral revolution”, saying he detected signs of a growing moral awakening in the country.
He said these were reflected in developments like the current unease over abortion.
Last week the Cardinal met Health Secretary Patricia Hewitt to press for a reduction in the time limit for legal abortions.
He told The Spectator magazine: “There is often a sort of Christophobia in the intelligentsia and opinion-formers in our society.
“But England urgently needs to hear the Christian message.
“This is why I’ve spoken out against abortion – not just to be heard, but for the sake of this country.”
Asked whether spiritual revival was possible in a consumerist age, he replied: “We need a revolution. Another moral awakening.
“It happened in the time of St Francis of Assisi and I have a suspicion that it may be beginning to happen again.”