Last week, we blogged about Britney Spears’ spiritual journey, capped by her proclamation that her baby is her religion. Turns out that Britney’s announcement did more than make headlines– it also cost her the close friendship of Madonna, an ardent student of Kabbalah who introduced Britney to the faith. The Material Girl–who is on a world tour in which she gets crucified on stage during one of her songs–is a huge supporter of the Kabbalah Centre in L.A. and has written several Kabbalah-themed childrens’ books.

Who seems to be stepping into the new vacancy in Madonna’s inner circle (which also reportedly includes Gwyneth Paltrow and Stella McCartney)? Lindsay Lohan, of course. The almost-20-year-old actress/singer reportedly wants to collaborate on a song with Madonna and has expressed an interest in Kabbalah. One source even claims they’re taking a trip to Israel together. Next up: kissing each other on MTV?

Even without Madonna in her life, a lot’s been going on in Britney Land. First, she went on the “Today Show” this morning to stump for tonight’s “Dateline” appearance, where commercials indicate she’ll defend her parenting skills. Brit’s been photographed lately with a young man accompanying her, and some outlets have said he’s her “manny,” or male nanny. After all, Brit’s part of the generation who grew up watching Tony Danza on “Who’s the Boss?”

It sounds like she needs all the help she can get, especially if she’s just lost one of her most powerful allies.