FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE (4/05)
Contact: Rev. Don Meeks, Centenary Center for Theological Studies, 318-869-5024, or Lynn Stewart, Centenary News Service, 318-869-5120

Public Discussion at Centenary April 17 to Discuss "The Legacy of John Paul II"

SHREVEPORT, LA — The Center for Theological Studies and the Department of Religious Studies at Centenary College will present "The Legacy of John Paul II and the Future of the Papacy: An Ecumenical Discussion" this Sunday, April 17.

The program, which is free and open to the public, will be held from 7-8:30 p.m. in Kilpatrick Auditorium, which is in the R.E. Smith Building.

"Few persons have had the impact on the world that Pope John Paul II has had over the past 26 years," said the Rev. Don Meeks, director of the Center. "On the eve of the beginning of the conclave in Rome, which will select the next pope, the Center for Theological Studies has assembled a special panel to discuss the legacy of Pope John Paul II and the future challenges facing the papacy and the entire church."

Dr. Peter Huff, chairman of the Centenary Department of Religious Studies, will offer comments on Pope John Paul's contribution to interfaith dialogue. A panel will feature representatives from the Eastern Orthodox, Episcopal and other protestant communions, as well as a specialist in Roman Catholic canon law.

The Rev. Mr. Meeks is encouraging all interested parties to "join us as together we examine the impact of Pope John Paul II's ministry for the entire Christian community and across inter-faith lines."

Following presentations by the panelists, there will be a time for them to engage each other and for the audience to offer feedback and raise questions.

- 30 -