“Franciscana” refers to the Franciscan traditions and the ways in which we attempt to apply and integrate them into our mission at San Damiano Retreat. The mission of San Damiano Retreat is to provide a peaceful environment of natural beauty where spiritual renewal and growth may be sought by people of all faiths and backgrounds In the Spirit of St Francis and St 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. Many directors have guided San Damiano through the myriad challenges and opportunities that have arisen: David Temple, OFM Michael Weishaar, OFM Howard Hall, OFM Paul Warren, OFM Tom Grant Ray Bucher, OFM Enshrined in the sanctuary area of the San Damiano Chapel is a reproduction of the crucifix that made the church of San Damiano outside the walls of Assisi famous. It was while in prayer before a 12th Century crucifix in the dilapidated church of San Damiano that Francis heard a voice. The Christ of the crucifix spoke to Francis, “Francis, go repair my church which is falling into ruins.” Literally Francis began to gather stones and started building the edifice only to realize that the larger community of the whole church was meant, not merely a material building. more»
Franciscana: right column
Franciscana
SAN DAMIANO MISSION STATEMENTDIRECTORS. PAST AND PRESENT
(1961-1976)
(1976-1982)
(1982-1989)
(1989-1995)
(1995-1996)
(1996-present)
SAN DAMIANO CRUCIFIX
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OUR HISTORY
Since its establishment in 1961, the San Damiano Retreat has been a place of natural beauty where thousands of people have come for spiritual re-newal and growth. Initially, San Damiano was a retreat house for men only. Soon after, however, it was opened to a wider variety of groups seeking a place for quiet reflection, and the Friars have long since expanded the programs to meet the varying needs of the times. Today, retreats of many different varieties – including spiritual, educational, and informational – are offered. Each, in its unique manner, helps retreatants address their own needs as well as those of the dynamic society in which we live.
FRANCISCAN RETREAT CENTERS & MISSIONS
SAN DAMIANO CRUCIFIX HISTORY & PRAYERS
FRANCISCAN SPIRITUALITY SITES OF INTEREST
FRANCISCAN HOSPITALITY
Hospitality is a hallmark of San Damiano. St. Francis of Assisi and the Gospels call us to welcome all to our center with open arms. In May we had an afternoon tea that was such a success that we are going to share more Franciscan hospitality on Sunday, May 5th, 2013 with an Afternoon Tea. Hope to see you all here!
