Core / Concentrations

the 8th Day Institute core and concentrations

The 8^th Day Institute consists of both a core program and concentrations which students choose at the end of the first year. The core program introduces the student to three aspects of character formation and the devout life: spiritual formation, self-awareness and pastoral care - these three form the foundation of the program.

core

The core of the Institute begins with spiritual formation, the over-arching them of the Institute and of the 8^th Day, both informing and forming us into a life of community and depth of character. Self-awareness is the discipline needed to receive deeply from Jesus healing and humility as we become aware of who we are, what our prejudices and hypocrisies are and how to live a life toward freedom. In pastoral care, we learn to attend to both our own hearts and the hearts of others as we learn to listen to God's heart of compassion for us and for humankind.

concentrations

The first year of the Institute introduces the three concentrations that the student will be asked to emphasize during the second year of the Institute. These concentrations will work along with the first year core to inform the project that emerges from the student's calling and passions. These concentrations are: spiritual direction, incarnational community and transformational leadership.

The concentrations give a focus to the student's learning and gifts and help to inform life-calling and direction. Spiritual direction is a much needed and growing part of the Church as people seek wise counsel and friendship from people of resource and experience. For those interested in learning more of this vital ministry to the church and how to incorporate spiritual direction into their lives and the lives of others, this is an area of ministry going in-depth in the heart of devotional and contemplative living. The second area of concentration is incarnational community, which is an introduction to community development, social outreach, and care to the marginalized and the forgotten. The third and final area is transformational leadership. This concentration is central to our calling here at 8^th Day is based on the need to build leaders of proven character, vision and wisdom. This concentration is for all walks of life, especially those in business and who lead organizations with entrepreneurial vision and calling.

For more information concerning the 8th Day Institute, please contact Dr. Dale Pollard at dale@8thdaycommunity.org, or by cell at 360-201-3957.