Because of its history as a symbol to St. Francis, Franciscan Religious cherish the San Damiano cross. It represents God's personal invitation to all Franciscans to commit their lives and resources in renewing and rebuilding His church.

A 12th century Umbrian artist most likely created the icon of the cross. John's Gospel story of Christ's death is painted on walnut wood using a variety of characters and symbols. The cross is approximately 74" tall (190cm), 47" wide (120cm) and almost 5" thick (12cm).

The Story
The significance of the cross comes from an event that became a turning point in St. Francis' life. During a contemplative walk Francis passed by the crumbling San Damiano church near Assisi, Italy when he felt compelled to enter and pray. St. Francis entered the church and knelt before a painted wooden cross hanging above the altar. As St. Francis prayed, he was startled to hear a voice telling him to "go and rebuild My house". At first he was frightened but then realized that this was God's personal invitation to him to change his life by living an existence of poverty and service.

Some years later St. Clare and the Poor Clare Sisters, followers of St. Francis, used San Damiano as their monastery. St. Clare meditated before this same cross for 41 years. When the Sisters moved to the city of Assisi they took the cross with them. The original San Damiano cross now hangs in the Basilica of St. Clare.