April, 2011

We have been particularly blessed at the John Paul II Newman Center this year by having our 2 patrons recognized as blessed by the church. In September Pope Benedict declared that John Henry Newman was beatified, on May 1st Pope Benedict affirmed that Pope John Paul II is now beatified.  Both men, Newman and John Paul II, provide great models for our students.  Both men saw the importance of scholarship and the intersection between faith and reason. This relationship between faith and reason is what guides many of our educational programs at the John Paul II Newman Center.

To further that ministry we are beginning this summer a School of Catholic Thought which will provide the students with a deeper look at the Catholic intellectual tradition. I am pleased to welcome Dr. Kenneth Howell who has been a Professor at the University of Illinois at Urbana for the past 11 years as a scholar in residence and Director for the School of Catholic Thought.

In this issue you will also see some announcements about our Summer Institute for High School principals and teachers The School of Catholic Thought will promote a discussion and dialogue between faith and reason. Our students will be exposed to it in an incredible way. I hope you will take the opportunity to learn more about the School of Catholic Thought in the coming months by visiting our web site at: www.SchoolOfCatholicThought.org

The Lord is risen, alleluia be assured of my prayers for you and your family during the season of Easter and be confident that whatever life challenges you with will be filled with hope as a result of Christ’s message.

“Do not be afraid.”

Rev. Patrick Marshall

Chaplain and Director

The John Paul II Newman Center