Latest Miracle Attributed to Cardinal Newman Verified

The Congregation for the Cause of Saints confirmed the latest miracle attributed to John Henry Cardinal Newman.

ROME (Catholic Online) - We have followed closely the continuing work being done on the cause of John Henry Cardinal Newman.Now we are pleased to report that there is word out of the "Congregation for the Causes of Saints" that the investigation of the latest miracle is finally complete.

The Congregation has confirmed the latest miracle attributed to Cardinal John Henry Newman, the healing of a severe spinal disorder suffered by Deacon Jack Sullivan from the Archdiocese of Boston. The Boston, Massachusetts Deacon told the London Times: "If it wasn't for Cardinal Newman's intercession ... it would have been virtually impossible to complete my diaconate formation and be ordained for the Archdiocese of Boston...Nor would I have been able to continue in my chosen profession as a magistrate in our court system to support my family."

Deacon Sullivan insists that through the late Cardinal's intercession he has developed "a very deep sense of the reality of God's love for each one of us, especially during times of immense difficulties and suffering....I have developed a very real relationship with Cardinal Newman in frequent prayer and I try to pass on what marvelous gifts I have received to those I meet."

The approval of this latest miracle constitutes the final step before the Holy Father, Pope Benedict XVI, proceeds with the beloved Anglican convert and British Cardinal's beatification. One more miracle will be required in the process leading to canonization. The congregation reached its decision to recommend beatification after an intense and through investigation.

Deacon Sullivan is 70 years old and has become an ardent advocate of the late beloved Cardinal's cause. He proclaims "from the housetops" the story of his miracle through the intercession of Cardinal Newman. His ministry has touched many and continues to inspire all who hear him speak.

Five Doctors had been appointed to do the investigation on April 24, 2008. Their report was submitted and confirmed that the healing was not capable of being explained medically.The position paper proposing the cause for Cardinal Newman was submitted to the seven members who sat on the Board of Theologians in July of 2008. On September 20, 2008, the Board of Theologians voted four in favor of proceeding. However, three reserved judgment. A minimum of five votes in favor was required before the case could be referred to the Congregation for a final vote.

The theologians sought further proof. Deacon Sullivan and the Diocesan Commission in the Archdiocese of Boston engaged in the gathering of more evidence concerning the healing and then submitted it. The Board met on December 20 2008 but the vote did not change.

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Finally, the Congregation for the Cause of Saints submitted a fuller package of evidence, testimony and medical records to the Board on March 28, 2009. The Board voted unanimously to proceed with recommending the beatification of Cardinal Newman to the Holy Father.

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