On July 31, a statement from the Holy See Press Office reported that Pope Leo XIV has “confirmed the affirmative opinion of the Plenary Session of Cardinals and Bishops, Members of the Dicastery for the Causes of Saints, regarding the title of Doctor of the Universal Church, which will soon be conferred on Saint John Henry Newman.”
St John Henry Newman will be the 38th person to be declared a Doctor of the Church.
Regarded by many as one of the great modern thinkers of Christianity, Newman was a key figure in a spiritual and human journey that left a profound mark on the Church.
A person is declared a Doctor of the Church in recognition of their significant contribution to theology or doctrine through their study, research and writings. Among the other 37 Doctors of the Church are St John of the Cross, St Teresa of Ávila, and St Thérèse of Lisieux.
The announcement that St John Henry Newman will be declared a Doctor of the Church will be a source of continued encouragement for all who seek to follow the example of Jesus of Nazareth and create parish communities that are inclusive and respectful of all people. Newman’s journey of faith and quest for the truth continues to inspire many to further explore their own faith, to discover the richness and meaning of their own baptismal call, and through prayerful reflection, study and pastoral action, to become active members and leaders within their own faith communities.
The Newman Institute, Ballina, will continue to support all who wish to give gentle witness to their faith in and through the living out of their baptismal call in service of their parishioners and parish communities.
“Lead, kindly Light . . .”