CS Lewis Honoured In Westminster Abbey

Belfast-born writer CS Lewis has been honoured with a memorial stone in Westminster Abbey, 50 years after his death.

Lewis has had a stone installed in Poets' Corner, alongside literary figures such as Chaucer, Dickens and the Brontë sisters.

Born in 1898, the writer is best known for the Chronicles of Narnia series.

He was also a respected Oxford scholar and literary critic as well as a theologian.

The CS Lewis memorial stone is inscribed with lines from one of his theological lectures: "I believe in Christianity as I believe the sun has risen. Not only because I can see it but because by it I can see everything else."

He died on 22 November 1963.

NI Culture Minister Carál Ní Chuilín said during an Assembly debate this week: "There are no boundaries to the legacy of CS Lewis. His writings appeal to those of different generations, religious beliefs and social circumstances. A common bond is created between us all where we can share in the enjoyment of his literature.

"Everyone can take ownership of his work, but there is a particular pride in his birthplace of East Belfast, where CS Lewis spent his formative years."

The Minister also spoke of a series of events taking place across the city to mark the anniversary.

"Literature and the Arts can create many opportunities for experiences to be shared and bonds to be developed," she said.

"I believe that the Arts and festivals can continue to play a part in helping all areas in the ongoing transition from conflict to peace.

"East Belfast has a rich cultural heritage and this can be a catalyst for promoting equality and tackling poverty and social exclusion.

"The key is not necessarily just about throwing together people from different backgrounds and environments in the hope that this will magic away the barriers and differences between them. It’s about building up self-confidence in individuals and in their communities; about developing a strong sense of self-worth, so that relations are less strained by insecurities over identity and difference."

(IT/MH)