Who else but the renowned archdiocesan archivist could be persuaded to produce an illustrated history of a men's group that has survived for 110 years?

Msgr. Francis J. Weber has once more published his "penultimate" volume --- this one on the auspicious Newman Club once described by the Los Angeles Times as an "organization of a strong Catholic Literary Association" bearing the name of the late John Henry Cardinal Newman. (That editorial comment appeared a day after the inaugural meeting of the Newman Club, May 25, 1899.)

On the anniversary of that auspicious beginning, this handsomely illustrated volume is appropriate. The 144-page chronicle encompasses the club's beginning, inspired by Bishop George Montgomery, to the current roster of members --- with sufficient data in between to satisfy any history aficionado.

Although Bishop Montgomery "felt something special was needed" to offset all the bigotry besieging Catholics, it was John Fillmore Francis, a convert, who initially headed the group. He was staunchly supported by the intrepid lawyer, Joseph Scott, who served as secretary and many other distinguished local leaders dedicated "to consider and discuss subjects germane to Catholic thought and history."

Prominent men comprised the group, but women were invited as guests and at the second dinner meeting the famous actress Madame Helena Modjeska delivered a paper on the influence of Christianity on the stage. The variety of monthly presentations followed the dictum of the bishop "that membership in the club be limited exclusively to laity prominent in their profession…on some topic germane to Catholic thought." The record for the most talks, however, belongs to "the humble scribe" who gave 11 presentations.

Among the outstanding contributors were: John Steven McGroarty (poet laureate and columnist); Charles Conroy (a Tidings editor); William Molony (physician) and of course, "Mr. Los Angeles," Joseph Scott. The edition comprises illuminating text, lavish illustrations and historical photos that prove once again the ongoing vitality of a dedicated purpose and zealous pursuit of truth.

In the closing section, obiter dicta, Msgr. Weber includes more tantalizing comments on topics from 1900 to that memorable visit in September 1987 --- "the day Pope John Paul II dropped by for lunch." As his final statement claims, "This history opens up a fascinating and unique window to the past of Los Angeles" and it surely does.