History & Beliefs
Notes Towards the Definitionof Cultural Renewal
Director Erin Doom
The Mission
of Eighth Day Institute can be summed up in eight words: “the renewal of culture through faith and learning.” This phrase seemed to be a clear, concise, and simple way to summarize my intentions for the development of what was still only an idea back in 2008. However, the more I’ve reflected on this simple statement as the idea has grown into a reality—and believe me, I reflect on it frequently—the more I realize how ambiguous it really is. More questions are raised than answered: “What is culture?” “Can a culture decay?” “Is our culture in decline?” If so, “What is the cause of our cultural decline?” “What does it mean to renew culture?” “Can we even speak of the renewal of culture?” If so, “How do we go about accomplishing it?”
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History
Although our history can be attributed to a large number of friends and influences, our mission began to crystallize into its present form under the leadership of director Erin Doom in 2006 within the small community surrounding Eighth Day Books in Wichita, Kansas. Small, informal gatherings eventually turned into a nationally recognized organization which attracts readers and conference attendees throughout the country. We obtained 501(c)3 status in 2008.
The Faith of our Fathers
We believe historic Christianity as revealed in its scriptures, confessed in its creeds, prayed in its liturgies, defended by its ecumenical councils, and interpreted by its "great cloud of witnesses” is the key to a vibrant culture. For an encapsulation of this historic Christianity, see the Nicene Creed.
Ecumenism Without Compromise:
The Common Tradition
The Common Tradition
The first element of Eighth Day Ecumenism is a dialogue of love. But it is a dialogue that is grounded in a second element: a return to the Fathers of the early Church, labeled by Fr Geroges Florovsky as a Neopatristic Synthesis. But what does this mean?
Our Philosophy
We believe a classical, liberal, and integrative education, if crafted correctly, will promote the renewal of culture by accomplishing seven goals: awaken wonder, kindle a love of learning, sharpen discernment, produce good citizens, give birth to love, lead to worship, and reintegrate fallen humanity.
Our Patron
St. John of Damascus was an eighth-century Byzantine saint whose life embodies everything we stand for at Eighth Day Institute. He was a philosopher and a theologian, a poet and a preacher, a hymnographer and a monk.
He is our hero and the patron saint of EDI.
He is our hero and the patron saint of EDI.