Was Shakespeare Catholic? By observing Shakespeare's history and his plays evidence suggests that he was sympathetic to the Catholics' plight. He had personal connections to people who were persecuted for their faith and throughout his plays there is evidence of a Catholic worldview. The Catholic Shakespeare? gives an inside look at the 2011 Portsmouth Institute conference, offering different takes from speakers to Shakespearean plays. Each speaker offers compelling evidence and some suggestions about the basis and meaning behind his plays as they relate to a Catholic view. Dr. Gerard Kilroy, University College, London, assembles linguistic and thematic cues to suggest Romeo and Juliet as an allegory for believers and the Catholic Church. Dennis Taylor, Boston College, takes a more historical approach in his review of Shakespeare's play The Tempest, tracing Catholic links to early efforts to explore the Americas. And, finally, Fr. David Beauregard, St. Clement seminary, takes a religious and philosophical look at relationships, charity, and the development of virtue in The Tempest. The Catholic Shakespeare is a must-read for anyone interested in the mystery behind Shakespeare's religion.

Modern Science, Ancient Faith brings together the proceedings of the annual Portsmouth Institute conference. The Modern Science, Ancient Faith conference asked tough questions, such as whether or not faith can exist in a world where science demonstrates ever more details of creation and the evolution of human life? And, is there a place for science among those who believe that the Book of Genesis is God s inspired revelation? This volume includes contributions from a range of perspectives, including scientists, philosophers, and theologians. It features essays from noted commentators on the science and religion debate, such as John Haught lecture Evolution and Faith, William Dembski on a proof of God s existence, and Michael Ruse on how we can make room for faith in our increasingly technological age. Modern Science, Ancient Faith brings readers into lively debate about thorny, yet essential, questions of faith and reason today.

Newman and the Intellectual Tradition highlights the proceedings of the 2010 Portsmouth Institute on Newman and the Intellectual Tradition. John Henry Newman was an Anglican priest for two decades in the 1800s, and was one of the founders of the Oxford Movement, which sought to reinvigorate the Church of England. In 1845 he left the Anglican Church to convert to Roman Catholicism. He was ordained a priest soon after, and was elevated to Cardinal in 1879. The richness of Newman's thought and the felicity of his prose remain powerful and provocative today. This book includes speeches, articles, and thoughts about Newman from a distinguished array of speakers. They successfully explore Cardinal Newman's far ranging life and thought. For anyone wanting to further their own understanding of Cardinal Newman's character this is a must-read.