A reader writes:

I am reminded of an observation that George Orwell made about England:

The common people are without definite religious belief, and have been so for centuries. The Anglican Church never had a real hold on them, it was simply a preserve of the landed gentry, and the Nonconformist sects only influenced minorities. And yet they have retained a deep tinge of Christian feeling, while almost forgetting the name of Christ.

In that spirit, I view the Doctor as a very English interpretation of Christ:  An eccentric fellow who wanders about doing good deeds, will bend the rules in the causes of justice and compassion, attracts followers who seek to emulate his example — and of course, periodically gives his life so that others may live, and is then resurrected.

Exactly. Jesus with a sonic screwdriver and a sense of fun.