Catholic universities have a gift to offer the world which arises from the way we think about knowledge. We have a duty in teaching and research to ensure that the link between faith and reason is not severed. A Catholic university should also help in the building of character. Our alumni should go on to serve society whist practising the virtues – whether they practice in business, the law, sport, health or education.

Francis Campbell, Britain's former ambassador to the Holy See, said Catholic schools challenged 'group-think' in society

Speaking at a conference at St Mary's University Twickenham, the cardinal said a change to the job application process would help create stable employment

The new autobiographical work will be translated by St Mary's University theologian Jacob Phillips

John Charmley said the university aimed to educate 'the whole person, body and spirit as well as intellect'

I know from experience that religion is seen as prejudiced or irrelevant. But Catholics have a vital role to play in politics – as a new centre will demonstrate

The new centre at St Mary's has the approval of the Vatican's Secretariat of State

The former Labour minister will be pro-vice chancellor for research and enterprise