Last Wednesday, Concordia Seminary hosted the visit of renowned writer and preacher Walter Wangerin, Jr. as part of the Seminary’s annual “Day of Homiletical Reflection.” Among his dozens of books are the National Book Award winner The Book of the Dun Cow, and his bestseller The Book of God. His visit held special meaning for me since I was his writing student as an undergrad at Valparaiso University.

But it was significant for another reason. It was the first viewing of the short film based on Wangerin’s short story/parable, “Ragman,” directed by one of St. Louis’ best indie film-makers, Dale Ward. Since it first gained popularity in the mid-80s, the powerful story of the Ragman has had a “viral” history, even before the Web gave us the term. One can track its circulation in church newsletters, sermons, dramas, discussion groups, and online. But aside from Wangerin’s own book, Ragman and Other Cries of Faith, this is the only production of “Ragman” carrying the author’s permission and approval.

And this SATURDAY, MAY 16, 7:00PM, “Ragman” will premiere on the big screen of Werner Auditorium at Concordia Seminary (map and directions). The premiere is free and open to public. There will be film updates, personal reflections, trailers, and last week’s videotaped interview with Walter Wangerin himself.

The film is not currently authorized for distribution, so this may be St. Louis’ only chance. Bring friends and/or family, meet the cast and crew, see the film, and (in true STL fashion) do it all without spending a dime.