Pittsburgh-based institute to celebrate Cardinal Newman sainthood with fall conference

The Pittsburgh-based National Institute for Newman Studies will hold a fall conference around the time Cardinal John Henry Newman is expected to be canonized by the Catholic Church.

The Oakland institute, repository of the extensive Newman library left by the Rev. Vincent J. Giese upon his death in 2000, issued a call for papers for the Fall Newman Conference on Thursday. Papers will be accepted through June 17.

The “Newman and Holiness” conference, scheduled for Oct. 24-25, will reflect on Newman’s legacy in light of his canonization, the institute said.

“John Henry Newman stands as a giant in the fields of theology, philosophy and education,” according to the NINS website. “Influencing many academic and spiritual disciplines, Newman’s writings and his lifelong search for religious truth continue to inspire scholars throughout the world.”

In February, Pope Francis announced that the cause for Newman’s canonization had been approved with the confirmation of a second miracle — the healing of an Illinois woman who was having complications with her pregnancy. The miracle was attributed to Newman’s intercession.

Although the date of canonization has not been announced, it is expected to take place in October, NINS Director Ryan Marr recently told the First Things Podcast.

An Anglican clergyman, Newman (1801-1890) was a founder of the Oxford Movement in the Church of England. He converted to Catholicism in 1845 and was later made a cardinal. Among his most famous works are “Apologia pro Vita Sua,” “Grammar of Assent” and “Idea of a University.”

The cause for Newman’s sainthood dates back to 1958. He was declared venerable by Pope John Paul II in 1991 and was beatified by Pope Benedict XVI in 2010. He will be the first Briton to be canonized since 1976.