Dear Reader,

It is not the definition of Eden that fascinates but the connotations. It implies ideas of untainted beauty, harmonious purity, and a world made right. The 2025 Eden issue expands these implications beyond images of gardens and angels into the authentic moments in everyday life. Instead, you will find explorations of heaven and memory, pieces that grapple with the burdens of longing and failure, and challenges of our pre-conceived notions of paradise. 

After all, the kingdom of God is here on earth right now. And what these pieces portray are glimpses of a kingdom with no more tears, no more grief, and no more division. Until then, this issue explores the tension between this future hope and the reality of a broken world bent on ignoring the call of a perfect love. As you read this collection, we pray the words and images bring you hope. A reminder that you are not alone in feeling that instinctive ache for a world that is not here yet. 

To put it in a sentence: if you are crying out, saying this is not how it should be, this issue is for you. 

 “He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away. He who was seated on the throne said, ‘I am making everything new!” 

Revelation 21:4-5 

Happy reading,

Abby Steensland & Brystol Beatley ‘25

Co-Editors in Chief