living compassion in the city

The 8th Day Community is dedicated to living compassion in the city; this mission has two meanings. The first meaning is that we look at a life of compassion as central to our calling and vocation, so we “live” this out in the present as people of faith with active concern for the poor, the marginalized, and the brokenness of humankind. The second meaning is that “living compassion” means we are part of the grand story of redemption and renewal as Jesus creates a new humanity in us as we incarnate, or flesh-out His love. In short, this compassion is a personal journey of faith and self-awareness into God’s compassionate heart, while at the same time our personal journey becomes a community adventure in giving ourselves away to the “least, the lost, and the lonely.”

Yearly/Seasonal Themes and Devotional Rhythms*

Part of the 8th Day Community's commitment is to live in a yearly rhythm in the classic Church Calendar. The seasons below help guide us through the year with a description of the main Church Calendar events in that season.

Fall - Forming

Fall is a time for forming community once again after the summer season. This is a time of personal and corporate formation focusing on the season of Advent, of Christ's presence and humility. This is a season of expectation and anticipation of the Lord's surprising mystery and wonder in the hearts of the community and the individual.

Winter - Nurturing

Winter is a time for nurturing personally and corporately God's compassion as revealed by Jesus. This season of Lent, focuses our attention in prayer and discipline on the Spirit's work among as He nurtures us into deeper communion with Him, with one another, and with the world around us.

Spring - Renewing

Spring is a time for renewal and celebration. The Easter season focuses our attention on Jesus' conquering death in His resurrection as He renews our hearts, our love, and His creation. This is a time of renewing our hope and focusing our souls on the Kingdom of God, the hope of the life to come, and the wonder of new life.

Summer - Serving

Summer is a time for service and intercession. The Pentecost season focuses our attention on the Spirit's invitation into community, love, and service for our neighbors locally and abroad. We are a missional community, expectant in our waiting and listening to God's voice amongst us. We are a community of service, helping relieve suffering and injustice as we model Christ's presence in our culture.

* Note: These themes and rhythms are evident in all of our activities and community life; we simply want to highlight and emphasize each one during the year and tie that into the church calendar.