Portrait of John Henry Newman by John Everett Millais, 1881

Today the Passionists commemorate with special joy the first feast day of the newly beatified Cardinal John Henry Newman, C.O.  This date was chosen for his celebration because Newman was received into the Roman Catholic Church by Blessed Dominic Barberi, C.P. who heard his confession and confirmed him.  He also celebrated Mass for him at Littlemore (Oxfordshire) on October 9, 1845.  The Passionists have for almost a century actively participated in the promotion of his cause in England, United States and Rome.  In this country his principal Passionist promoter was Father Alfred Cagney, C.P., who wrote of him frequently in The Sign magazine.  Father Alfred died in 1941.

- Fr. Jerome Vereb, C.P.