On the Eighth Day: A Catholic Theology of Sport

During a 1980s Edmonton Oilers game, fans unveiled a banner claiming, “On the 8thday, God created Gretzky.” Intersections between religious belief and sportingparticipation are nothing new, where players, coaches, and fans are known to pray,cross themselves, and point to the heavens during a game. But what should be therelationship between sports and religious faith?On the Eighth Day introduces the theology of sport from a Catholic standpoint. Itwrestles with sport’s universal appeal, its rich symbolism, and its spiritual and moralcharacteristics. Sport is a place where embodied games can be sacramental; wheretraditions of the past speak to contemporary peoples; and where truth and justice aredemanded in a world affected by sin.The eighth day recalls the playful, re-creative work of God the Creator embodiedin Christ’s resurrection. In this sense, this book marks out a “new day” in Christianattitudes toward modern sport and the continuing call to redeem sport in service ofhuman flourishing. Comprehensive yet accessible, the book will engage thoughtfullay sports fans and academic students alike. Read more