AS HUMANS, we are mimetic creatures in need of models. Most of our ways of being and imagining ourselves in the world come from how we have seen others live—our parents, teachers, pastors, celebrities (and I’ll argue, protagonists in our favorite novels or films). As Christians, we have not lost our capacity to adore these heroes, but, as Protestants, we are uncomfortable venerating anyone unless it is an NFL Player, Rachel Hollis, or an Avenger. What I hope to show is the need for reading models who pursue holiness. I am taking a rather unorthodox approach to this search for holiness by seeking our models in fictional characters. However, I do so for at least three reasons: 1) we do not have to debate the status of holiness according to the factual or misrepresented versions of biographies; 2) through fiction, we are able to take on this person’s perspective, see through their eyes, experience their sinful thoughts as well as how God accomplishes good despite these weaknesses; 3) because our imagination is the first access point to our wills and to changing how we live in the world. Thus literature or counter-narratives to those offered by a secular culture become paramount for Christian living.
In an isolating secularized culture where the Church's voice is muffled through her many divisions, Christians need all the help they can get to strengthen their faith in God and love toward their neighbor. Eighth Day Institute offers hope to all Christians through our adherence to the Nicene faith, our ecumenical dialogues of love and truth, and our many events and publications to strengthen faith, grow in wisdom, and foster Christian friendships of love. Will you join us in our efforts to renew soul & city? Donate today and join the community of Eighth Day Members who are working together to renew culture through faith & learning.
November 2024
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28
5pm Ray Anderson Theological Task Force
29
30
6am "Ironmen"
31
4pm Cappadocian Society
1
7:30am Prayer Group - Hill
2
3
4
5pm Ray Anderson Theological Task Force
5
6
6am "Ironmen"
7
4pm Cappadocian Society
8
7:30am Prayer Group - Hill
6pm Chesterton Society
9
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11
5pm Ray Anderson Theological Task Force
12
13
6am "Ironmen"
14
4pm Cappadocian Society
7pm Hall of Men
15
7:30am Prayer Group - Hill
16
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18
5pm Ray Anderson Theological Task Force
19
4pm Preaching Colloquium
6:30pm Sisters of Sophia
20
6am "Ironmen"
21
4pm Cappadocian Society
22
7:30am Prayer Group - Hill
23
7am "Ironmen"
24
25
5pm Ray Anderson Theological Task Force
26
27
6am "Ironmen"
28
4pm Cappadocian Society
7pm Hall of Men
29
7:30am Prayer Group - Hill
30
Location
Eighth Day Institute at The Ladder
2836 E. Douglas Ave.
Wichita, KS 67214
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