St. Francis and the San Damiano Cross

From Advent through Lent to a book study and retreat on St. Clare, 2022-23 has been a Franciscan year as Rolling Ridge has explored the spirituality of St. Francis of Assisi. We conclude this year of Francis with a Day Apart Retreat in honor of his feast day.

For St. Francis, the San Damiano Cross was an important icon and centering space for contemplation and life-transformation.While meditating on the cross, the young Francis heard the crucified Christ speak, calling him to "go rebuild My house; as you see, it is all being destroyed.”That commission transformed Francis, and through Francis' life and commitment to Christ, it transformed the larger Christian church.Today, 800 years later, the San Damiano cross continues to speak, not just to Franciscans, but to anyone who longs to see Christ's church restored and their own lives renewed.

Join us for a special Day Apart Retreat on the week of the Feast Day of St. Francis as we explore the story of Francis and the San Damiano cross, and examine the images on this iconic symbol through insights from the Gospel of John and the writings of Francis. With Jesus suspended at the center of the cross, many other biblical figures are present and together, they tell the mysteries of creation, incarnation, and glory that transformed Francis.

Taize-style worship and prayer, silence and sharing, teaching and reflection will frame this day of contemplation.May the San Damiano Cross transform and inspire you as it did Francis, turning a self-centered spoiled young man into a saint who embraced the outcasts of this world and transformed the church.

Cost: $79 includes program and lunch