C. S. Lewis On Why He Never Became A Catholic

**Photo Credit**: copyright *Lux Veritatis*, 2025.

Summary: VIDEO: I make my best guess as to why Anglican apologist C. S. Lewis never became a Catholic. He was ecumenical & didn’t discuss it much, but was also a true-blue Protestant.

Why didn’t C.S. Lewis ever become Catholic? He believed in purgatory, the invocation of saints, and the development of doctrine. He admired Chesterton, loved Tolkien, and shared many convictions with Rome—so what held him back? In this compelling documentary-style video, Catholic author and apologist Dave Armstrong takes a balanced and deeply researched look at Lewis’s views on Catholicism, drawing from Lewis’s private letters, published essays, and close friendships with Catholics. With pastoral insight and historical depth, Armstrong explores everything from Lewis’s ecumenical approach and theological objections to the cultural baggage of his Belfast upbringing. Protestants and Catholics alike will come away with greater understanding—not only of C.S. Lewis himself, but of the issues that still divide and the faith we still share. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or discovering Lewis for the first time, this video is essential viewing for anyone asking: Why didn’t he cross the Tiber?

My Related Articles

C. S. Lewis’ Childhood in Belfast & Contra-Catholicism [6-26-12]

C. S. Lewis’ Views on Christian Unity & Ecumenism [6-16-03]

C. S. Lewis on Catholicism (Correspondence: 1934-1947) [9-13-19]

C. S. Lewis vs. St. Paul on Future Binding Church Authority [National Catholic Register, 1-22-17]

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Photo Credit: copyright Lux Veritatis, 2025.