International Centre of Newman Friends

The International Centre of Newman Friends, located in Littlemore, Oxford, serves as a significant site for those interested in the life and works of Saint John Henry Newman. This centre is situated within "The College," a collection of 19th-century buildings where Newman lived from 1842 to 1846. It was here that he was received into the Catholic Church in 1845, marking a pivotal moment in his spiritual journey. (ncregister.com)

The centre is managed by the Sisters of The Spiritual Family The Work, an international religious community founded in 1938. They arrived in Littlemore in 1986 and have since transformed the site into a retreat and study centre. Visitors can explore Newman's personal rooms, including his library and bedroom, which have been preserved to reflect his time there. The chapel, where he was received into the Church, remains a focal point for prayer and reflection. (ncregister.com)

The centre offers a peaceful environment, attracting individuals seeking spiritual solace, scholars researching Newman's life, and those interested in the history of the Oxford Movement. Regular Mass services are held in the Newman Chapel on Fridays at 9 am, and a Holy Hour takes place on Wednesdays from 7:45 pm to 8:45 pm. The centre is open from Monday to Friday, with visiting hours from 10:30 am to 12:00 pm and 2:00 pm to 5:00 pm; on Saturdays and Sundays, it is open from 2:00 pm to 5:00 pm. (birminghamdiocese.org.uk)

Visitors often commend the centre for its welcoming atmosphere and the hospitality of the sisters. Many describe the site as a place of peace and spiritual significance, with the presence of St. John Henry Newman strongly felt throughout the grounds. (littlemore.cylex-uk.co.uk)

For those interested in learning more about John Henry Newman's life and his contributions to the Church, the International Centre of Newman Friends provides a unique and immersive experience. Whether you're a pilgrim seeking spiritual enrichment or a scholar delving into Church history, the centre offers a profound connection to Newman's legacy.