Birmingham: discussion to mark anniversary of Newman's beatification

Blessed John Henry Newman

Newman University College Birmingham will mark the anniversary of Cardinal Newman's beatification with a day of discussion on the human condition this Saturday, as part of their Catholic Year of Education, brings together leading theologists to discuss a range of issues surrounding the themes of growth, development and awareness.

Margaret Holland, chaplain at Newman University College, said: "It's hard to believe it's already a year since the Pope visited Birmingham to beatify our namesake, Cardinal John Henry Newman.

"Part of Cardinal Newman's legacy was his commitment to education and the development of the whole person so a discussion around these issues seems an entirely appropriate way to mark this important anniversary.

"The recent riots across the country highlighted what can happen when we lose sight of our own humanity so we're the event is all the more timely. We're looking forward to hosting some interesting discussions that will hopefully inform and shape some positive action over the important weeks and months to come."

Guest speakers at the event include Reverend Dr John McDade - a key figure in Jewish Christian dialogue in Britain; Professor Gavin D'Costa - professor of Catholic Theology at the University of Bristol and advisor to the Pontifical Council for Other Faiths in Vatican City; Dr Sarah Boss - director of the Marian Centre at Roehampton University; and David McLoughlin - senior lecturer in Theology at Newman University College Birmingham - former president of the Catholic Theological Association of Great Britain and a founder member of the Movement of Christian Workers.

Tickets for the event, which takes place between 10am and 4pm, are priced at £60 (£40 concessions) and available by emailing conferences@newman.ac.uk or calling 0121 476 1181 x2429, quoting 'Being Human'.