Catholic actor Jonathan Roumie, who plays Christ in the series "The Chosen," is pictured in a promotional poster for the series. (CNS/The Chosen)

UPDATE — The screenings described below have been postponed until further notice because of the COVID-19 surge. The parish plans to reschedule the series in the near future.  

URBANA — The first eight episodes of “The Chosen,” a television drama about the life of Christ, will be shown on Tuesdays, starting Jan. 11, in St. Brigid Hall of St. Patrick Church, 708 W. Main St. The screenings follow the 12:10 p.m. Mass and are planned for 1 p.m.

Those who attend are welcome to bring a sack lunch or snack to eat. Coffee, tea and water will be provided.

After each screening there will be a brief discussion. The sessions will finish at about 2:15 p.m.

“The Chosen” was created and directed by Dallas Jenkins. It depicts the life of Jesus by giving the back story of those he encountered and how their lives were changed. These stories are not told in chronological order.

Those who are unable to attend can still watch the episodes on YouTube. Each one includes a roundtable discussion with three religious scholars and Jenkins.

The screenings at St. Patrick will continue through March 1, the day before Ash Wednesday. Organizers said attending Mass and then watching “The Chosen” is a good way to prepare for Lent.