Pope Benedict XVI sent his "heartfelt greetings" to the people of Great Britain today in his weekly general audience in Rome.
He said he was "very much looking forward" to his visit and that it would be a "particular joy" to beatify Cardinal Newman, a figure whom he greatly admires.
The Pope pointed to Newman's "gentle wisdom", saying: "This truly great Englishman lived an exemplary priestly life and through his extensive writings made a lasting contribution to Church and society both in his native land and in many other parts of the world.
