Preaching to the unconvertible

One of the most disturbing trends in politics over the past three years is the change in attitude of federal politicians to the christian right. Much has been said of the 'rise of the christian right', but what is glossed over is the fact that the christian right has always existed in Australia but it has always moved in mysterious ways. Some would argue for example that what we now consider christian right values were mainstream views of fifty and more years ago. More recently, say over the past decade or more, the christian right has been cornered by the likes of the Christian Democrats led by the vile Fren Nile.

Last year saw the rise of a new, 'modernised' version of the same old ultra-conservative Assemblies of God-based political party: Family First. Doesn't the name just make you warm and fuzzy inside? To some unsuspecting voters it certainly did at the 2004 federal election. Managing to win a Victorian Senate seat off back-door preference deals with the ALP and tiny 1.2% of the primary vote, we are going have to listen to preaching for years to come.

Last night on Lateline it was reported that Peter Costello addressed Hillsong (the largest Assemblies of God congregation) for his second time. Costello was interviewed on the controversial relationship he has with Hillsong (Costello's pathetic answers to simple questions can be read here).

But what was surprising was seeing the NSW Premier Bob Carr, whom I heard was atheist, addressing the same Hillsong congregation. The SMH (whom I have taken the photo from) has an article on it and a small snippet from Lateline can be read here:

Economic prosperity, vital though it is, does not solve all our problem. There is, as well, the life of the spirit and the mind, family and community, enduring values, compassion for those doing it tough.

He's right and I am sure some there agreed (but its all about priorities!) but I kept thinking Carr must be getting desperate to stoop to Costello's desperate attention-seeking tactics. Why try preach to the unconvertible?