In the World, but not of the World - Dr. Mark Jubulis

This episode’s sermon, “In the World, but not of the World,”  is found in Sermons Preached on Various Occasions, a wonderful collection showcasing Newman’s literary power. Dr. Mark Jubulis reflects on this funeral homily preached on May 5, 1873, at the Funeral of James R. Hope Scott, a Catholic convert and leading English attorney. In this eulogy of James Hope Scott (who was married to Sir Walter Scott’s granddaughter) and Tractarian (part of the Oxford Movement) we learn more about Newman through his friendships and his deep reverence for Hope Scott. Here once again Newman contrasts the secular gentleman (who perfects generosity in worldly projects in solely world pursuits) with the Christian gentleman whose sole desire is to please God. Newman offers that the reason Hope Scott passed by so many worldly opportunities was to avoid placing limitations on his offering goodness to others. His largeness of mind opened his heart. A heart open to the thought of God overcomes the world. Newman ends this sermon spurring us on - when we suffer the loss of holy friend we can exclaim “Oh happy soul” because they gave up this world for the next. What is important is the fate of their soul not our loss. 

Newman's sympathy letter to the daughter of Hope Scott can be found at the end of the podcast sermon section of the website, www.newmanontap.com. 

To approach Newman's majestic thought it is highly recommended to download the formatted sermon at www.newmanontap.com. Comments and suggestions are appreciated on the same site.