In the afternoon, we reunited with Dr. Paul Shrimpton, whose familiarity with Oriel College made our visit feel like stepping into a well-loved home. His insights into Newman’s life and legacy were both profound and engaging.
In the Senior Common Room, beneath a portrait of Newman, Paul recounted the significance of this space—a place where Fellows and Tutors once engaged in conversations, debates, and celebrations.
Oriel College was central to Newman’s life. He was elected a Fellow on April 12, 1822, at the age of 21—a prestigious academic position that marked the beginning of his influence in Oxford’s intellectual life. In 1826, he was appointed a Tutor at Oriel, becoming directly involved in the teaching and moral supervision of undergraduates. This role became central to his attempt to reform the tutorial system and promote a more personal and formative model of education. He continued as a Tutor until the end of 1832, when the Provost ceased to assign him new students. This was the result of a controversy with the provost over the tutorial system. . . .
When I went to Oxford in 2010 I was not able to enter Oriel College and see the stained-glass window of Newman in the chapel nor his portrait in the Senior Common Room, so I enjoyed seeing pictures of them at least.
Here's the post for Newman sites in London and here's the one for the first day in Oxford!
You could follow the journey here.
Either Mark or I took the picture of the pulpit in the University Church of St. Mary's the Virgin in Oxford when we visited together with our great friend Monsignor Bill Carr years and years ago!
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