Book Review: Loss and Gain by John Henry Newman

Blessed John Henry Newman was an influential priest, an eminent theologian, writer and one of the most attractive figures of the Victorian era. He published Tract 90 which seemed to offer a Catholic interpretation of the Anglican Articles; Grammar of Ascent, arguing against the idea that Christian faith can be proven through Logic; and his classical work The Idea of a University. (1) He also published six volumes of his sermons, and many other scholarly writings. He was indeed a proficient writer that Times (August 1890 issue) reported, “whenever Newman’s pen took its turn all were roused from their tranquility or their slumber.” (2)

Loss and Gain is a novel portraying John Newman himself in the person of Charles Reding, a young Oxford student who experiences perplexing doubts and questions and ends up leaving the Church of England and become a Catholic. Charles Reding had a real struggle for during that time there was a great contention between various factions within the Church of England. His inclination towards Catholicism was caught up in this unfavorable religious climate. Eventually, he decided to convert, a decision that causes great dismay to his family and friends but leads him to personal fulfillment.

“Lead Kindly Light amid the encircling gloom, Lead thou me on!

The night is Dark and I am far from home-Lead Thou me on!

Keep Thou my feet; I do not ask to see, The distant scene-one step enough for me” (3)

It was in Oxford that Charles Reding felt an interior trial. His soul was flooded with doubts but light sparked. His faith keep him moving forward until he reaches the portal of Passionists Convent where he joins the Catholic Church. 

 It was Sunday morning at seven o’clock where he was kneeling in front of the Most Blessed Sacrament, as if he was already in heaven, before the throne of God, and angels around him... he whispered, “What a joy, Reding!” (4)

 

Loss and Gain is compelling for it comes from John Henry Newman’s personal experience, and at the same time an excellent overview of the Church of England in a novel form. I would highly recommend this book to everyone especially those who are making their journey home to the Catholic Church. It is also a reminder for each one of us, that a true journey towards God is not always a smooth sailing. Our Lord did not promise us joy in this life, but even in this life we can experience a glimpse of that joy, if we follow Him faithfully, carrying our cross everyday till the end, and then we can say with Charles Reding in the novel, “What a joy!”

References:

  1.       Ellsberg, Robert, All Saints, page 85-86

  2.       Newman, John Henry, Loss and Gain, Introduction page xv

  3.        Fox, Fr. Robert J. Saints and Heroes Speak, Chapter 33, Cardinal John Henry Newman, page 400

  4.       Newman, John Henry, Loss and Gain, page 353