British convert given rare Catholic honour by Pope Leo XIV
Pope Leo XIV (The Associated Press)
Pope Leo XIV has bestowed the rare honour of Doctor of the Church upon St John Henry Newman, the influential 19th-century British convert and theologian.
This distinction places Newman among an elite group of only 37 individuals in the Catholic Church's 2,000-year history, recognising his universal appeal and profound contribution to Christian faith.
Newman, who began his spiritual journey as an Anglican priest before converting to Catholicism in 1845, is now also a co-patron of Catholic education alongside St Thomas Aquinas.
The Pope's decision highlights Newman as a model for Catholic educators and students, particularly in promoting spiritual growth, community, and the ethical use of technology.
Newman's insights on navigating an 'ocean of knowledge' and advocating for a liberal education that includes Catholic theology are considered highly relevant in today's information age.
