A Life Formed by Grace, Marked by Wisdom, and Given in Service
Few individuals have left such a lasting impression on the intersection of faith, scholarship, and discipleship as Dr. Lyle W. Dorsett. A pastor, professor, historian, and storyteller, Dr. Dorsett shaped generations of students and believers through his deep love for Jesus Christ and his unwavering commitment to spiritual formation.
A Scholar of Soul and Story
As a distinguished historian and longtime Director of the Marion E. Wade Center at Wheaton College, Dr. Dorsett brought renewed attention to the lives and writings of C.S. Lewis, G.K. Chesterton, and the broader Inklings community. His scholarship was never mere academic exercise—it was a ministry of insight and imagination, offering believers a richer way of seeing the world.
A Pastor and Professor at Beeson
In 2005, Dr. Dorsett joined the faculty of Beeson Divinity School at Samford University in Birmingham, Alabama, as the Billy Graham Professor of Evangelism. For over a decade, he formed future pastors and leaders through courses in evangelism, spiritual formation, and church history, and through his deep pastoral care and mentorship. He and his wife Mary also helped found Christ the King Anglican Church, which met in Beeson’s historic Hodges Chapel.
At Beeson, Dr. Dorsett was not only a beloved professor—he was a spiritual father to many. His ministry modeled how sound theology, gospel proclamation, and relational discipleship could be held together in a unified vision of Christian life and mission.
A Friend to Tactical Faith
Dr. Dorsett’s friendship with Tactical Faith helped shape our own mission toward thoughtful cultural engagement. His support for our events, encouragement of younger leaders, and gracious wisdom continually challenged us to go deeper—to love both God and neighbor with imagination, courage, and humility.
The Inklings Legacy
It is only fitting that our annual gathering on faith, imagination, and reason bears his name. The Lyle W. Dorsett Inklings Conference is not merely a celebration of Lewis, Tolkien, and their literary fellowship—it is a living tribute to a man who carried their vision forward with faithfulness and grace.
“Further Up and Further In”
We give thanks to God for the life and legacy of Dr. Lyle W. Dorsett. May his witness continue to inspire us toward faithful presence, creative apologetics, and spiritual wisdom in a world aching for meaning.
“There are no ordinary people. You have never talked to a mere mortal.”
— C.S. Lewis