Pope Leo XIV Officially Adds Saint JH Newman to the Universal Calendar - the Patron Saint of Education Celebrated on Oct. 9
St. John Henry Newman Added to General Roman Calendar
VATICAN CITY — In a decree released Tuesday, February 3, 2026, the Dicastery for Divine Worship and the Discipline of the Sacraments announced that Pope Leo XIV has officially inscribed St. John Henry Newman into the General Roman Calendar.
The 19th-century English convert and cardinal, recently named a Doctor of the Church, will be celebrated with an optional memorial on October 9—the anniversary of his 1845 reception into the Catholic Church.
Key Milestones in Newman’s Journey
The decree follows a series of significant recognitions for the saintly pastor:
2010: Beatified by Pope Benedict XVI.
2019: Canonized by Pope Francis.
November 1, 2025: Proclaimed a Doctor of the Church and co-Patron of the Church’s educational mission by Pope Leo XIV.
February 3, 2026: Officially added to the General Roman Calendar.
"A Radiant Light"
The Vatican decree, signed by Cardinal Arthur Roche and Archbishop Vittorio Francesco Viola, describes Newman as a "radiant light for the Church on pilgrimage." It highlights his tireless service to the poor, his intellectual rigor, and his profound contributions to theology and ecclesiology.
The text notes that his life-long quest to move "out of shadows and images into the fullness of truth" remains a primary example for modern disciples.
Implementation
The new memorial will be integrated into all liturgical books and calendars. National Bishops' Conferences are now tasked with translating and approving the official liturgical texts for the Mass and the Liturgy of the Hours, subject to final confirmation by the Holy See.
"God has created me to do Him some definite service... I am a link in a chain, a bond of connection between persons." — St. John Henry Newman
https://www.vaticannews.va/en/vatican-city/news/2026-02/john-henry-newman-inscribed-general-roman-calendar-october-9.html
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