Blessed John Henry Newman: A Catholic Guide for Our Modern World August 4-7, 2011

This year’s Rendezvous will focus on Blessed John Henry Newman, his writings and influence, and the significance of his teachings for the Catholics of today.

Pope John Paul II pointed to Newman as a model of the union of faith and reason, and Pope Benedict XVI has several times stressed Newman’s deep influence on his own theological thinking. But Newman’s forty or so published volumes, along with thirty-two volumes of letters, can be intimidating.  Participants in the 2011 Catholic Rendezvous will find an accessible pathway into the life, thought, and refreshing relevance of the Cardinal. 

• What kind of education do today’s leaders need?

  Patrick Reilly, President of The Cardinal Newman Society will speak about Newman’s The Idea of a University in relation to the cultural battles of our times.

• Who was John Henry Newman?
  Dr. Peter Kwasniewski will offer an overview of Newman’s dramatic life and his impact on the Church today.

• Can the Church be divided into “conservative” and “liberal”?

  Dr. Sean Lewis will explain Newman’s famously balanced position, which defies the popular media categories used today to describe Catholicism from the Vatican to the parish council.

• Can we argue ourselves or others into the faith?

  Looking at Newman’s poetry, fiction, and theological works, Prof. Herb Mosher will explore how Newman defines the role of the imagination in conversion.

• Is Catholicism the key to culture?

  Prof. Jason Baxter will illuminate Newman’s insight into the essential connection between the Catholic faith and the best in human art, architecture, and culture.

But reserve your spot today – space is limited and we expect them to fill very quickly.

Your Hosts

WCC's President and Co-Founder, Rev. Robert Cook will welcome you to Lander, WY and be your host for the duration of your stay. Other administrators will be present throughout the weekend to answer any questions you may have about the College. And best of all, several current WCC student “ambassadors” will be serving you throughout the conference: assisting with transportation, leading outdoor excursions, and helping you with your homework.

 

Academic Study
Sadly, many adults choose to stop learning after earning their degree. But life is fullest when we stimulate our minds and learn to be better disciples of Christ. Come experience the flavor of authentic liberal arts education. You will be instructed by WCC faculty and nationally-known guest lecturers. The reading selections will be sent prior to the conference. The course material will be academically accessible for any college graduate.

Spiritual Component
WCC is authentically Catholic in every respect. Your time at the Rendezvous will be wrapped in spiritualitly – just like the life of a WCC student. From daily Mass and prayer to the inclusion of Faith topics in academic study to the presence of our Chaplain for confession and spiritual direction, you might think of the Rendezvous as a mini-retreat in some respects.

Accommodations and Meals
Accommodations will be provided at Lander’s newest hotel, Holiday Inn Express, opened in December 2009. Meals will range from an opening night authentic Western barbeque at the President’s house, to an elegant five course grand banquet on the final evening.