Dec 16, 2011

Peter Hitchens on Atheism & His Brother's Death

1 Min Read

As many of you know by now, outspoken atheist Christopher Hitchens died Thursday night at the age of 62. We were deeply saddened to hear of his passing without any public acknowledgement of repentance and trust in the finished work of Christ.

Many Christians are aware of the hostile views of Christopher Hitchens. However, few Christians are aware that his brother, Peter, was also for many years antagonistic toward Christianity and a self-avowed atheist like his brother. Unlike Christopher, however, Peter is a prodigal son who has returned home. The story of the way God used simple beauties, such as architecture and painting, to draw Peter to faith is truly moving. Many Christians have wondered what is going on inside the heads of atheists to make them so angry. In a June 2011 interview with Tabletalk magazine, Peter Hitchens gave us a glimpse into his life and thought as a Christian who was converted from atheism.

Read the Interview

Read Peter Hitchens' reflections on his brother's death.


Excerpt from the Interview

Tabletalk: How does the death of a loved one challenge atheism at its core?

Peter Hitchens: Death is the great reminder that this life is limited, and that it may not be the end. For most of our lives, we behave as if this is not so. It is only when death touches those close to us that we are forced into this understanding, especially in a modern world where death is kept at a distance, ignored, undiscussed, and shuffled off into corners.