On the 15^th May 1879, exactly 130 years ago, John Henry Newman was raised to the dignity of Cardinal. We therefore publish the famous “Biglietto Speech“, made by the new Cardinal on that occasion. If we hear news about Newman’s Cause for Beatification, we shall inform you through articles on our Homepage and in our next Circular Letter.

Vi ringrazio, Monsignore, per la participazione che m’avete fatto dell’ alto onore che il Santo Padre si è degnato conferire sulla mia umile persona—

And, if I ask your permission to continue my address to you, not in your musical language, but in my own dear mother tongue, it is because in the latter I can better express my feelings on this most gracious announcement which you have brought to me than if I attempted what is above me.

First of all then, I am led to speak of the wonder and profound gratitude which came upon me, and which is upon me still, at the condescension and love towards me of the Holy Father in singling me out for so immense an honour. It was a great surprise. Such an