St. John Henry Newman
Cardinal, Theologian, Convert
Feast Day: October 9
Biography
St. John Henry Newman (1801–1890) was one of the most important Christian thinkers of the modern era. An Anglican clergyman and leader of the Oxford Movement (which sought to restore Catholic elements to the Church of England), his deep study of the Church Fathers led him to conclude that the Catholic Church was the true heir of the early Church. His conversion in 1845 shocked Victorian England. As a Catholic, he founded the Oratory of St. Philip Neri in Birmingham, established the Catholic University of Ireland, and produced an extraordinary body of writing — including An Essay on the Development of Christian Doctrine, Apologia Pro Vita Sua, The Grammar of Assent, and The Idea of a University. Pope Leo XIII made him a cardinal in 1879. His motto was 'Cor ad cor loquitur' — Heart speaks to heart. He was canonized by Pope Francis on October 13, 2019.
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Symbols
Prayer
St. John Henry Newman, you followed the truth wherever it led, even at great personal cost. Help me to let my conscience be guided by truth and to trust that God leads those who seek Him honestly. Lead, kindly Light. Amen.
Asking for Intercession
Catholics ask saints to pray with us and for us, as we ask friends on earth. St. John Henry Newman, who lives in God's presence, intercedes before His throne. Speak from your heart: “St. John Henry Newman, please pray for me…” You may also pray the prayer above or include this intention in your Rosary.