Have you ever seen the Crucifix above?If you have ventured to a Catholic store recently, you probably have seen it hanging on a wall for sale. Possibly, you have spotted it incorporated into a rosary or a piece of jewelry. I was under the assumption that most would know why this particular icon was so popular. That is, until I asked some of my Catholic friends. Almost none of them knew. This image is a part of our Catholic Culture. It is a significant artifact, among many, that help connect us to our past and those in the communion of saints. And all Catholics should know its significance.
So, what is the Crucifix’s story?
It is called the San Damiano Crucifix and is associated with St. Francis of Assisi. One summer day in 1206, St. Francis stopped by the small church of San Damiano near the city of Assisi. The abandoned church had fallen into ruin, but the almost life size pained Crucifix was still standing. As St. Francis prayed kneeling before the image, he heard Christ speak to him saying, "Francis, don't you see that my house has collapsed? Go and repair it for me." Francis took these words literally and started to repair the building, which took the next couple of years. But this was just the beginning of a long and very interesting spiritual journey for the Saint. If you only know of St. Francis through his popularity as the "animal saint", you have not even scratched the surface of this fascinating man. I encourage you to find out more.
For a detailed look at his life go to: http://www.ewtn.com/library/MARY/FRANCIS.htm
For more about the San Damiano Crucifix go to: http://www.stfrancis.edu/MisInt/sandam.htm