This week in Christian history: CS Lewis converts to Christianity, Pope Leo the Great consecrated

Pope Leo the Great consecrated – Sept. 29, 440

This week marks the anniversary of when Pope Leo I, also known as Pope Leo the Great, was consecrated, beginning a reign that would endure until his death in 461.

Leo I oversaw the Ecumenical Council at Chalcedon, which, among other things, reaffirmed the orthodox Christian teaching that Jesus Christ had both a divine and a human nature.

He wrote on the topic in an influential work, titled Tome, and wrote hundreds of letters and preached scores of sermons in support of the idea of papal supremacy.

Quite possibly his most famous act was when, in 452, he successfully convinced the barbarian conqueror Attila the Hun to spare the city of Rome during his invasion of the Italian peninsula.

“Out from the ancient gates of Rome passed a white-haired ancient in bishop’s raiment. The aged pope of Rome hobbled forth to hold a conference with the wild Hun while the city waited and watched,” according to Catholic Answers.

“The pope’s plea echoed in Attila’s ears like a command. The Hun raised Leo to his feet, swore to an enduring truce, and retreated with his legions across the Danube.”