Lionel Blue

Lionel Blue (born 6 February 1930) is a British Reform rabbi, journalist and broadcaster. He was the first British rabbi publicly to declare his homosexuality.

He is best known for his longstanding work with the media, most notably his wry and gentle sense of humour on Thought for the Day on BBC Radio 4's Today programme.

In 1998, Blue was awarded an Honorary Doctorate from the Open University. He is also honorary doctor of Divinity and Fellow of Grey College, Durham. He is an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE).

Early life and journey into faith

Born in the East End of London, Blue was the son of a master tailor. He entered Hendon County School at sixth form level, following education in the East End and a year out of school at age 16–17. His history master at Hendon told a later sixth-form group, "Blue's essays were unlike any I have ever seen from anyone else. They didn't give facts, but were disquisitions on historical philosophy!"

Blue read History at Balliol College, Oxford and Semitics at the University of London before being ordained as a rabbi in 1960. He spent time in the Army but was discharged after a nervous breakdown brought on by anxiety over his homosexuality.