Anglican convert John Newman to be proclaimed 'Doctor of the Church'

VATICAN CITY - John Henry Newman, a 19th century Anglican priest who converted to Catholicism, will be proclaimed a "doctor of the Church" by Pope Leo XIV in a rare distinction, the Vatican said Thursday.

The London-born Newman was canonized in 2019 by the late Pope Francis.

He is only the 38th person to receive the title of "Doctor of the Church" -- reserved only for figures who have previously been canonized.

In a statement, the Vatican said Leo had "confirmed the affirmative opinion" of bishops to give Newman the title.

When Francis canonized Newman in 2019, the UK's Charles -- then prince and now king -- led a British delegation honoring Newman.

Born in 1801, Newman had tried to reform the Anglican Church, before becoming convinced that Catholicism was the only true faith and converting aged 44.

He founded the Oxford Movement with the aim to reform the Church of England.

Newman died in 1890. — Agence France-Presse