Why?
For centuries, Christ-centered Sacred Arts served as the visual heartbeat of the faith, transforming spiritual truth into a language of music, wood, stone, and pigment. Saint Damascus Gild was born to preserve this golden thread of craftsmanship that originated in the early Church and inspired our culture. By reclaiming these “lost arts” and instilling them in the next generation, we ensure that the same mastery which once built holy spaces continues to build community and renew our culture today.
Our mission is to steward a living tradition of performing, visual, literary, and liturgical arts—equipping a new generation with timeless expressions that awaken wonder and draw us toward God.
At the heart of this movement are four artist gilds, each guiding God-given talent into works that glorify Him. Together, we’re building something beautiful. Our goal is to create a permanent home for the Sacred Arts—a Sacred Arts Event Center where we can transition from protecting a legacy to actively creating one.
As a Sacred Arts Nonprofit/Events Organization, we host community-based workshops, masterclasses, and live performances across eastern Iowa to inspire creativity, reflection, and connection.
There is a place for everyone in this movement. Whether you create with your hands, your voice, or your support, your presence matters. We are eager to see how our unique gifts complement one another to build something truly beautiful for our community and for the glory of God.
“The beauty of sacred art moves me to contemplation, as a meadow delights the eyes and subtly infuses the soul with the glory of God.”
-St. John of Damascus
What?
St. Damascus Gild is a Christian non-profit that strives to inspire a deeper connection with God, fellow artists, and the community. We host family-friendly and faith-filled events that are grounded upon a firm foundation—Jesus Christ and His Word.
Our Name:
St. Damascus Gild is named after Saint John of Damascus, who is our patron saint—defender of holy art. He was born and raised in Damascus, Syria from 675-749 AD, and is known as the last of the Church Fathers in both the Eastern and Western Churches.
“Gild” is not a mere typo. It is an intentional use of the word “gild,” which means to cover in gold. Here we use it as a play on the word “guild” which means organization. This purposeful use of this homonym is a nod to our patron Saint’s nickname (The Golden Orator), and our mission to bring light to the world through our creative works.
How?
We are made up of amazing people like YOU!
We have a range of talented artists, musicians/vocalists, writers, designers, and more that collaborate and help create meaningful and engaging workshops, masterclasses, and live performances.
If you are an aspiring artist, a professional, a speaker, or someone who simple appreciates beauty please sign up to join our Arts Gild. This is a simple questionnaire that lets us know what you’re interested in and how you would like to be involved in the future.
Where?
St. Damascus Gild is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit/events organization serving eastern Iowa—the heart of the Midwest. We will be hosting events at different venues near Cedar Rapids, IA until we are able to build a permanent home — a Sacred Arts Event Center.
Who?
We will be hosting a variety of events for artists of all ages/levels, and community members. We welcome anyone interested to come and experience the beauty of sacred arts first-hand!
Workshops:
The perfect starting point for creators of all levels. Whether it is a youth painting session or an adult writing circle, our workshops offer a welcoming space to learn new skills through hands-on practice.
Learn more about the different Art Gilds here.
Masterclasses:
High-quality, expert-led instruction for professional artists and aspiring students. These sessions are curated for the disciplined learner focused on vocational excellence and technical mastery.
Public Performances/Events:
A transcendent experience of beauty, open to every member of our community. Featuring local and national professionals in music, art, and the written word, these curated events invite neighbors from all walks of life to encounter the sacred arts and leave feeling spiritually renewed and closer to God.
When?
We are launching December 2026!
Events to look forward to leading up to December:
- Speaking engagements to share more about St. Damascus Gild
- If you’d like to have us come talk to your ministry, school, circle/group, etc. please email us at [email protected]. We’d love to hear from you!
- “Glimpse” events to show a glimpse of what our workshops, masterclasses, and live performances look like before our official launch.
- Click here to see our upcoming events.
- Official Launch/Inaugural Gala on December 3, 2026. Save the date!
- Click here to learn more about the Gala and how you can support the launch.
Stay up to date by joining our monthly newsletter, and check our calendar for upcoming events.
