Prince of Wales to attend Canonisation of Bl John Henry Newman

Pope Francis meets Royal couple in 2017

Source: Clarence House

The Prince of Wales will attend the canonisation of Cardinal John Henry Newman on Sunday 13th October at the Vatican.

Following the service, His Royal Highness will attend a reception at the Pontifical Urban College. Cardinal Newman studied at the College while preparing to become a Catholic priest.

Cardinal Newman will be the first English saint since the Forty Martyrs were canonised in 1970, and the first British saint since St John Ogilvie in 1976.

Following the announcement, the Archbishop of Westminster, Cardinal Vincent Nichols said: "We are delighted that HRH The Prince of Wales will lead the UK delegation for the canonisation of Cardinal Newman on 13 October. Cardinal Newman's exploration of faith, depth of personal courage, intellectual clarity and cultural sensitivity make him a deeply admired follower of Christ. His ministry, especially among the poor, is a permanent sign of the Church's pastoral compassion and a challenge to us all today.

As one who has been a lifelong champion of the spiritual in everyday life, to promote understanding between faiths, and who has sought to alleviate poverty and disadvantage through his charitable work, The Prince of Wales is particularly qualified to mark the canonisation, which will be such a significant and joyful moment for this country."

The Prince of Wales and The Duchess of Cornwall met Pope Francis during a visit to the Holy See in April 2017. They also met Pope Benedict XV1 at the Vatican in 2009.

In April 2005 His Royal Highness attended the funeral of Pope John Paul ll.