Savannah Clark Guthrie, a prominent figure in American television journalism, has captivated audiences with her engaging presence on NBC’s Today show since July 2012.
But beyond her professional achievements, many are curious about her personal beliefs, particularly regarding religion. So, is Savannah Guthrie Catholic?
NBC’s Today show anchor, Savannah Guthrie, aligns with the Baptist tradition while incorporating aspects of Judaism from her husband’s faith. Her faith journey inspired the creation of the book “Mostly What God Does: Reflections on Seeking and Finding His Love Everywhere,” rooted in Ephesians 5:1-2, emphasizing God’s pervasive love and the potency of faith.
Who Is Savannah Guthrie?
Born December 27, 1971, Savannah Guthrie joined NBC News in 2007 as a legal analyst. Guthrie ascended through roles including White House correspondent and co-anchor of MSNBC’s The Daily Rundown.
In 2012, she became co-anchor of Today, succeeding Ann Curry, after serving as co-host of its third hour. Throughout her tenure, Guthrie’s versatility and legal acumen have been instrumental across NBC platforms.
Her academic journey exemplifies her pursuit of excellence. Graduating cum laude in 1993 with a B.A. in journalism from the University of Arizona, she showcased early dedication to her craft.
Continuing her academic prowess, in 2002, she attained a Juris Doctor from Georgetown University Law Center, graduating magna cum laude and achieving the highest score on the Arizona Bar exam.
Notably, her commitment to advocacy earned her prestigious accolades, such as the International Academy of Trial Lawyers’ Student Advocacy award.
Transitioning from law to journalism, Guthrie’s career flourished in 2004 as a national trial correspondent for CourtTV, where she covered prominent legal cases.
Despite personal challenges, including a brief marriage to BBC News presenter Mark Orchard and subsequent divorce, Guthrie found love again with Michael Feldman, tying the knot in 2014.
Their family expanded with the birth of two children, marking significant milestones in Guthrie’s personal and professional life.
What Is Savannah Guthrie’s Faith?
Delving into her faith journey, Savannah Guthrie has openly discussed the significance of religion in her life.
At a Catholic luncheon in 2018, she underscored the interplay between motherhood and faith, emphasizing their interconnectedness.
Reflecting on her parenting approach, Guthrie expressed a commitment to instilling foundational values and exposing her children to both her Christian Baptist background and her husband’s Jewish heritage, leaving the ultimate choice of faith to them as they grow.
Guthrie’s perspective on faith extends beyond mere instruction; she strives to model a deep-seated relationship with God for her children.
While she acknowledges the complexity of navigating religious teachings with young minds, she emphasizes the importance of fostering a sense of God’s love and compassion.
Moreover, Guthrie’s faith journey has prompted her to embark on a deeply personal project: the authorship of a book titled “Mostly What God Does: Reflections on Seeking and Finding His Love Everywhere.”
Rooted in Ephesians 5:1-2, the book serves as a testament to Guthrie’s belief in God’s omnipresent love and the transformative power of faith.
In her book, Guthrie candidly addresses her struggles with anxiety and the uncertainties she faced, particularly during pivotal moments in her career. Through it all, she finds solace and reassurance in her faith, viewing God as a constant companion.
She said (via USA Today):
“This book is a series of reflections about faith, and it’s from the heart. It’s really vulnerable and personal. And it’s that way because in so many ways, this is the book that I need to read. … I need to be reminded, like we all do, that God loves us and is on our side and has an eternal promise to be present to us.”
Guthrie further expressed:
“It’s not a promise that everything’s going to work out our way, or on our timing, or that we’re just going to crush life. It’s simply a promise that I am here for you. And I’m here with you… He’s got me. I am not alone. Whatever happens, I will never be alone. He has brought me to this moment, and he is not about to abandon me now.”
Guthrie also delved into challenging theological inquiries, such as the existence of suffering despite God’s love.
She also confronted the age-old dilemma of why bad events occur to virtuous individuals, acknowledging the complexity of these existential questions within the realm of faith.
Savannah explained:
“Spoiler alert: There is no answer. I’m not resolving those unanswerable questions. … I think what I’ve learned over the years that faith and doubt are not opposite. They are features, they are part and parcel. They go hand in hand.”
Guthrie further said:
“If you don’t have doubts sometimes or questions, then I’m not sure you’re thinking hard enough about everything because this world invites doubt, and God invites our questions and is OK with those questions and is eager to engage.”
While she acknowledges the ambiguity surrounding concepts like Heaven, Guthrie opts for a stance of hope, choosing to prioritize optimism and belief in the face of uncertainty.
Guthrie’s faith not only shapes her personal life but also influences her interactions within her professional sphere. She shares a special bond with her colleague Jenna Bush Hager, rooted in their shared faith experiences and mutual support.
Beyond the confines of her book, Guthrie remains committed to exploring the nuances of faith.
In a world marked by uncertainty and turmoil, Guthrie’s steadfast faith serves as a beacon of hope and resilience, inspiring others to embrace the transformative power of belief.
How do you navigate discussions about faith within your own family or community? In what ways do you find hope and resilience amidst life’s challenges?
Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.
Source: USA Today
