On John Roberts in NRO:

So where should we look, to get a glimpse of what a Justice Roberts would be like on the Court? I would suggest that part of answer lies in his Catholicism. Described as a "devout" Catholic, Roberts received a Catholic education before heading to the strongly secularist world of Harvard — in the 1960s, no less. When I see Roberts speak, ever so succinctly, or read his equally succinct writings, I see one of my students. In my 15 years at not only a Catholic university, but the Catholic University of America, many capable (and occasionally not so capable) students have come through my Constitutional Law classes. Many of my better students have been quiet, thoughtful, respectful, and very attentive to their obligations — but drawing them into critical argument can be another matter. Roberts’s record seems to reflect a Catholic discipline and comfort with hierarchical roles and authority; he has learned how to tame — in an amiable manner — his intellect and emotions for a larger cause or obligation, be it a president, a client, or the law itself.

It may be that such training is so embedded in Roberts’s character that he will be disinclined to engage in the larger dialogue necessary to responsible constitutional interpretation. But it seems at least as plausible that his Catholic humility and patience have helped him be content in his roles, and that he will understand and welcome the larger thinking required for excellence in the new role he has been called upon to perform. Given the strength of both his intellect and his religious faith, that seems particularly likely. And if this proves to be the case, and a more robust and forceful Roberts jurisprudence emerges, we will be glad that whispering in his ear, dampening his ego, will be that Catholic understanding of the frailty of man. Wedded to a forceful intellect not afraid to stand on principle, that constraint creates a fruitful, responsible balance, and surely the law and the Court could use that today.