In 2004, Chicago Sun Times columnist Cathleen Falsani interviewed Barack Obama about his Christian faith. It’s a rather interesting interview. It provides insight into Obama’s conversion and his profound respect for Reverend Jeremiah Wright (at least his respect for Rev. Wright in 2004).

Here’s an excerpt:

FALSANI:
Who’s Jesus to you?

(He laughs nervously)

OBAMA:
Right.

Jesus is an historical figure for me, and he’s also a bridge between God and man, in the Christian faith, and one that I think is powerful precisely because he serves as that means of us reaching something higher.

And he’s also a wonderful teacher. I think it’s important for all of us, of whatever faith, to have teachers in the flesh and also teachers in history.

FALSANI:
Is Jesus someone who you feel you have a regular connection with now, a personal connection with in your life?

OBAMA:
Yeah. Yes. I think some of the things I talked about earlier are addressed through, are channeled through my Christian faith and a personal relationship with Jesus Christ.

Read Falsani’s full 2004 interview with Barack Obama concerning his faith: Obama’s Fascinating Interview with Cathleen Falsani.