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We enjoyed our celebration of 50 years serving all who desire peace and renewal. Here is a link to a photo gallery slide show with more pictures. Many thanks to all who attended and have supported us these 50 years. For nearly 30 years this statue of St. Francis of Assisi has welcomed visitors to San Damiano. It was installed in memory of William J. Murphy by his family. Recently, the landscape around the statue received a makeover generously donated by Mr. Murphy’s son Kerry and his wife Margie. Thank you to the Murphy family for their care and support. “I especially liked the grounds and nature…also, the uplifting presentations.” Recent retreat attendee
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REMEMBER…REVISIT…RENEW
SAN DAMIANO’S 50TH ANNIVERSARYFOR NEARLY 30 YEARS …
THE STORY OF THE ORIGIN OF THE CHRISTMAS CRECHE
The story of the origin of the Christmas crèche rests with the very holy man, St. Francis of Assisi. In the year 1223, St. Francis, a deacon, was visiting the town of Grecio to celebrate Christmas. Grecio was a small town built on a mountainside overlooking a beautiful valley. The people had cultivated the fertile area with vineyards. St. Francis realized that the chapel of the Franciscan hermitage would be too small to hold the congregation for Midnight Mass. So he found a niche in the rock near the town square and set up the altar. More …
San Damiano is a sanctuary of transformation for people of different faiths and backgrounds. The peace and beauty of our gardens and spacious grounds offer a serene place where individuals, groups, and organizations, (both religious and non-religious), may reflect on new insights…new choices… new decisions.
WE OFFER…
- Inspiring retreats for spiritual growth
- A Center for meetings and conferences
- Private retreats and directed private retreats
- Spiritual Direction
- A peaceful environment of natural beauty to rest and renew
OUR MISSION…
… is to provide a peaceful environment of natural beauty where people of all faiths and backgrounds may seek spiritual renewal and growth. In the spirit of Sts. Francis and Clare and guided by the Franciscan traditions of joy, hospitality, compassion, peace and simplicity, we offer contemporary and challenging retreats and programs in response to the changing needs of God’s people.
DONATE TO SAN DAMIANO…
We depend and rely on your continued generosity and support for current operations, fundraising events and retreat events. Since 1961, the Franciscan Friars have welcomed to San Damiano those who thirst for a greater connection to God. Through innovative and relevant retreats and spiritual direction, individuals can discover Gospel answers to today’s challenging questions. San Damiano is truly a spiritual oasis.
2012 THEME…
Hungering For Peace
“To have world peace we must first have peace within ourselves. The idea of world peace is attractive but impossible to attain unless each person strives for inner peace. This means opening ourselves to the transforming action of God’s Spirit within us.” (Ilia Delio, OSF) If you are hungering for peace come to San Damiano for a restful, peaceful time.
