San Damiano Retreat

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About Us

Since 1961, the Franciscan Friars, of the Province of St. Barbara, have welcomed to San Damiano Retreat those who thirst for a greater connection to God.

Our Mission

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.

 

Our History

Brother PierraSince its establishment in 1961, 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.

Directors Past & Present

Many directors have guided San Damiano through the myriad challenges and opportunities that have arisen:

  • David Temple, OFM (1961-1976)
  • Michael Weishaar, OFM (1976-1982)
  • Howard Hall, OFM (1982-1989)
  • Paul Warren, OFM (1989-1995)
  • Tom Grant (1995-1996)
  • Ray Bucher, OFM (1996-2014)
  • Vince Mesi, OFM (2014-2015)
  • Michael Minton, OFM (2015- 2016)
  • Kenneth Laverone, OFM (2016-2017)
  • Mr. Peter Wise (2017-2019)
  • Ms. Lisa Briones (2020)
  • Mrs. Alison Yount (Present)

Origins of Our Name

San Damiano Chuch, Assisi Italy.
San Damiano Church,
Assisi Italy.

The original San Damiano, a little church located outside the town of Assisi, Italy, has great significance in the life and vocation of St. Francis of Assisi, the founder of the Franciscan Order. 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 up the edifice only to realize that the larger community of the whole church was meant, not merely a material building. St. Clare of Assisi, the first female follower of St. Francis, was given San Damiano as the first convent for her community, the Poor Ladies. The Poor Clares took the original San Damiano cross with them to the Santa Chiara Basilica where it hangs in a chapel. It is our hope that San Damiano Retreat will be a place of listening, vision, and rebuilding for you and a place of encounter with Christ.

Conference Facilities & Services

Located among the hills above San Ramon Valley, San Damiano Retreat  provides a unique environment … read more...

Gift Shop

Welcome  We are pleased to welcome you to our redesigned San Damiano Retreat Book and Gift Shop. We … read more...

Dining at San Damiano

Guests consistently sing the praises of the meals served at San Damiano. Chef Ron Roncarati and team … read more...

Grounds, Garden & Labyrinth

Come explore the grounds at San Damiano, pray and meditate surrounded by textures, colors, scents … read more...

Outdoor Activities

  San Damiano is situated on 55 acres.  Visitors enjoy walking prayer and meditations at … read more...

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