Blessed Dominic Barberi (1792-1849) is often remembered for the pivotal role he played in receiving Saint John Henry Newman into the Catholic Church. Yet, despite his significant influence, even the most ardent Newman scholars rarely explore the depth of the man who, on a stormy October night in 1845, heard Newman's confession. Saint John Henry Newman had known of Blessed Dominic for several years prior to his conversion, admiring his profound spirituality and theological acumen. However, Newman may not have fully grasped the extent of Blessed Dominic’s extraordinary spiritual gifts, which included ecstasies, visions, and prophetic insight, or his unceasing experience of the 'dark night' of the soul, offered up for the conversion of England.

Dominic Barberi was more than just an Italian priest in humble attire; he was a vessel chosen by God to lead one of England’s most esteemed pastors into 'the one true fold of the Redeemer.' Despite his relatively short ministry in England, spanning only eight years, Blessed Dominic's impact was profound. He preached over a hundred missions, founded Passionist retreats, and built churches, all while enduring immense spiritual and physical hardships for the glory of God and the salvation of souls.

In this concise yet insightful biography, Fr Gerard Skinner introduces readers to one of the least known, yet most influential, apostles to the English. Discover the life and legacy of Blessed Dominic Barberi, a man whose hidden sacrifices and unwavering faith laid the foundation for a new chapter in England’s spiritual history.