Centenary College’s Christian Leadership Center kicks off a 12-day series today to celebrate the life of C.S. Lewis, an iconic writer in 20th century Christianity. The center is commemorating the 50th anniversary of his death by hosting a documentary film, panel discussion, book groups and a prayer retreat, according to Maegan Daigle, assistant director of Centenary’s Christian Leadership Center.
“He wrote poetry and science fiction. He’s most well-known for 'Chronicles of Narnia.' For many, he’s one of the influential writers of the 20th century, especially Christian writers," Daigle said.
In coordinating the six events, Daigle recruited spiritual leaders from across north Louisiana to discuss Lewis’ “Mere Christianity” on Tuesday, Nov. 12, at 7 p.m. The program will be held in Centenary's Whited Room. The theological book, "Mere Christianity," was adapted from a series of BBC radio talks made while Lewis was at Oxford during World War II. Daigle said the panel discussion will be modeled around how "Mere Christianity" came together with the religious leaders weighing in on it.
“We want to bring the big picture of Lewis because he’s so much more than writing apologetics or 'Chronicles of Narnia.' There’s a bigger and more special thing there," Daigle said.
Tonight’s opening event is a screening of the documentary “The Life and Faith of C.S. Lewis: The Magic Never Ends” at 7 p.m. in Kilpatrick Auditorium. It will be followed by a question-and answer-session led by Centenary professors Peter Huff and Jennifer Strange. All events are open to the public.