Online course: The Theology of John Henry Newman

The Theology of John Henry Newman & Its Relevance for Today's Church - A Six-Part Online Course - Starts in January 2026, hosted by the Margaret Beaufort Institute, Cambridge.

2026 begins with a remarkable opportunity to engage in deep learning rooted in the profound insights of one of Britain's most influential saints. Saint John Henry Newman-renowned theologian, educator, and spiritual guide-continues to shape Catholic thought across the world.

On 1 November 2025, the Feast of All Saints, Pope Leo XIV declared Newman a Doctor of the Church and Co-Patron of Catholic Education. In his homily, the Pope described Newman's enduring legacy:

"Newman's impressive spiritual and cultural stature will surely serve as an inspiration to new generations whose hearts thirst for the infinite, and who, through research and knowledge, are willing to undertake that journey which, as the ancients said, per aspera ad astra-through difficulties to the stars."

A Course for Our Time

In response to this historic proclamation, the Margaret Beaufort Institute, Cambridge-together with the Newman Association-has created a new six-session short course exploring the heart of Newman's theology and its relevance for the Church in our day.

Ideal for clergy, religious, educators, students, or anyone seeking deeper formation, this course offers structured and accessible engagement with Newman's thought, taught by leading scholars.

Course Format

Six online sessions, one evening per month
Live on Zoom: Tuesdays, 5.30-7pm (GMT)
Recorded for later viewing
Participants receive:
A Certificate of Attendance
CPD hours
Access to an online platform with handouts, slides, and further reading
Early Bird Offer - £20 Off
Register before 17 December to benefit from the Early Bird discount.
Course fee: £150 (or £130 with Early Bird).
Group discounts are also available-ideal for parishes, religious communities, and schools.

Course Outline

20 January - Prophet, Priest and King: Christ, the Christian and the Church
Dr Wendy Allen (Independent Scholar)

17 February - Authority and Obedience: Encountering a God Who Speaks
Dr Geertjan Zuijdwegt (KU Leuven)

24 March - The Role of the Laity
Dr Jan Nowotnik (Director of Mission, Catholic Bishops' Conference of England and Wales; National Ecumenical Officer)

21 April - Newman and the Logic of Faith
Dr Daniel Pratt Morris Chapman (Wesley House, Cambridge)

26 May - What Does Newman Mean by "Mysticism"?
Dr Elizabeth Huddleston (National Institute for Newman Studies)

23 June - The Development of Christian Teaching
Dr Liam Hayes (Margaret Beaufort Institute of Theology, Cambridge)

To book your place on the course click HERE.

For more information contact Natalie Despot at The Margaret Beaufort Institute, email: nd520@mbit.cam.ac.uk

Phone: 01223741039

LINK

Margaret Beaufort Institute: www.mbit.cam.ac.uk