John Henry Newman

As one of the most outstanding Christian thinkers in history, John Henry Newman continues to influence theology, especially Catholic theology, long after his death in 1890. Yet, his writings on faith, particularly The Grammar of Assent, are difficult to read without guidance and direction. John Henry Newman: A View of Catholic Faith for the New Millennium provides both a comprehensive introduction to Newman's theology and a thorough analysis of its relevance for the Church today. The first systematic analysis of Newman's thought, this book skillfully weaves together the Cardinal's diverse writings on faith with seminal secondary sources and presents an integrated view of his mature notion of Catholic faith. Enhanced by a detailed introduction, biographical sketch, and bibliography, this book explores John Henry Newman's teaching on the relationship between faith and doubt, the role of the will in certitude, the relationship between faith and reason, the personal nature of faith, the function of the magisterium, the importance of dialogue, and the role of the conscience in decision-making. The concluding chapter examines the significance of Newman's thought for Catholic theology today.

For anyone interested in the 'Catholic Faith in the New Millennium,' Newman's Grammar of Assent is a rewarding 'read.' Yet, Newman's Grammar can also be very challenging and confusing even for philosophers and theologians. Connolly's book, which displays enviable familiarity with Newman's writings and his many commentators, both past and recent, is a very helpful and useful guide not only for understanding Newman's thought on faith and reason, but for living the Christian faith in today's world., John Connolly examines Newman's notion of faith through a historical prism: Newman's Anglican period, his early Catholic period still heavily influenced by the Roman theologians of the day, and his later Roman Catholic period that represents the ripening of his mature thought. Connolly successfully argues that Newman's personalistic notion of faith enabled him to navigate the tricky ocean currents of being both faithful to church magisterium and open to new developments in theology, all the while receiving criticism from others less open to developments than he., John Connolly provides a helpful overview of Newman's writings on Catholic faith while trying to show its relevance for contemporary Catholics., An exceptionally useful book for anyone grappling with the notion of faith today., Enhanced by a detailed introduction, biographical sketch, and bibliography [his book] explores Newman's teaching on the relationship between faith and reason, the personal nature of faith, the function of the magisterium, the importance of dialogue, and the role of the conscience in decision making.

John R. Connolly is professor of theological studies at Loyola Marymount University in Los Angeles, California