St. John Henry Newman

This small volume, part of the Ex libris series, offers an affordable and accessible introduction to Newman's theology. It hones in on some of the most important quotations from Newman's writings and organizes them to facilitate regular devotional reflection. Compiled by Ryan Marr, director of the National Institute for Newman Studies and associate editor of the Newman Studies Journal, it will awaken an interest in this influential thinker and possible future saint.

John Henry Newman, recently Beatified by Pope Benedict XVI, was a famous Anglican convert to the Catholic Church, an Oratorian priest, a brilliant author of novels, poems and acclaimed spiritual works, and a renowned preacher. Newman had a great impact on the intellectual and spiritual journey of the author, Fr. Louis Bouyer, who became a famous theologian and spiritual writer. His exchange with the thought of Newman over the years is a model of theological dialogue as Bouyer understood it: the passionate engagement with and free assimilation of all that can illuminate Catholic truth. Bouyer does not see in Newman the eminent Victorian, but a potential contemporary; not the subtle philosopher, but a Christian of integrity who sought all his life to follow Christ and did so with an edifying fidelity.Bouyer studied important unpublished documents by Newman at the Birmingham oratory and addressed the delicate question of Newman's sensitive temperament, the key to entering the world of this great theologian. For Bouyer, one of the principle elements of the spiritual universe of Newman is a genuine mysticism of Christ: Irreplaceable mirror outside of which God's radiance eludes fallen man and only appears as shadow.Bouyer shows that as St Augustine was the great apostle to the early Church, and St. Thomas Aquinas was to the Middle Ages, so is Newman that for modern times. A work of major significance for anyone who wants to approach the towering figure of John Henry Newman.

Often, we don't seem to realize how precious time is until it's gone. We need someone to remind us that we are made for more than this world offers. We're meant for the greatness of sanctity, and we need help to get there. The saints who have gone before us can provide the spiritual support we need.

During his life, Saint John Henry Newman's letters and sermons testified to the far-reaching impact of his priestly ministry. And today Newman's thoughts on the Christian life still hold enduring wisdom for each of us.

Newman adopted two mottoes as guiding principles in his life: "Life is for action" and "Holiness before peace." He encourages each of us to step forward in faith so that we can accomplish great things and embrace with courage the challenges of living the Christian life in a post-Christian world.

Seeking God with Saint John Henry Newman is an invitation to receive spiritual counsel from one of the towering intellectuals of the nineteenth century. Newman's practical guidance, distilled for the reader by Newman scholar Bud Marr, provides wisdom on prayer, penance, and the path to heaven.