Than Lose Thee
Getting to know St. John Henry Newman, our newest Doctor of the Church
I have often, in my journaling, written love letters to my Creator. While reading the writings of the now-Doctor-of-the-Church St. Cardinal John Henry Newman, I discovered a poem that deeply touched me. But before we get there, let me give you a bit of background on this saint, who stands among the greatest thinkers and spiritual guides of the Catholic Church, remembered for integrating intellectual rigor with profound pastoral insight.
John Henry Newman (b. 21 Feb 1801, London) studied at Trinity College, Oxford, became an Oriel Fellow, and rose in academic and religious life. Ordained deacon (1824) and priest (1825), he led the Oxford Movement advocating Catholic traditions in the Church of England. After studying the Church Fathers, he converted to Catholicism (9 Oct 1845), was ordained a Catholic priest (1847), and made cardinal by Pope Leo XIII (12 May 1879).
His spiritual journey from Anglicanism to Catholicism reflected a deliberate and thoughtful pursuit of harmony between faith and reason. He pioneered influential ideas on the development of doctrine and strongly emphasized the moral authority of conscience. He also advocated for a liberal education that cultivates both intellect and character, leaving a lasting and widespread impact on secular and religious educational systems alike. He is the Patron of College Campus Ministry, which is how I came to know him a bit better. On November 1st, 2025 (All Saints’ Day), during the Jubilee of the World of Education at St. Peter’s Basilica, he was also named co‑patron of Catholic education alongside St. Thomas Aquinas. Pope Leo XIV described Newman as “an inspiration to new generations,” noting that his writings continue to illuminate the unity of faith and reason and the enduring moral authority of conscience… [catholicne...agency.com], [usccb.org]
THAN LOSE THEE
by St. Cardinal John Henry Newman- Doctor of the Church
And therefore, O my dear Lord, since I perceive Thee to be so beautiful, I love Thee, and desire to love Thee more and more. Since Thou art the One Goodness, Beautifulness, Gloriousness, in the whole world of being, and there is nothing like Thee, but Thou art infinitely more glorious and good than even the most beautiful of creatures, therefore I love Thee with a single love, a one, only, sovereign love.
After looking at Thee there is nothing on earth, not even what is naturally dear to me, that I can love in comparison of Thee. I would lose everything whatever rather than lose Thee. For Thou, O my Lord, art my supreme and only Lord and love.
Writing love letters to God is a beautiful, nourishing spiritual practice that blends prayer with heartfelt, personal expression. If you sat down and wrote a tender letter to God, what might it say from the depths of your heart? Give it a try and see what comes up.
Thank you for allowing me to be part of your spiritual journey! Keep at it! Keep praying. Love the Lord.
Peace and Grace.Fran Acosta,OFS
