The San Damiano Cross story describes how Francis, while walking through a field and meditating, came across the church of San Damiano, which was old and near collapse. Feeling compelled by the Holy Spirit, he went inside to pray and, while prostrate before an image of the Crucified, heard a voice from the cross telling him, "Francis, go and repair my house which, as you see, is all being destroyed." Initially, Francis understood this command literally and began repairing the physical church of San Damiano with his own hands. Over time, with guidance from the Holy Spirit, he realized the deeper meaning of the message, referring to the spiritual renewal of the Church that Christ purchased with His blood. This moment marked a profound turning point in Francis' life and mission.
People of Peace OFS Fraternity - Favorite Stories: 8 of 12
Resources:
Bonaventure - The Major Life of Saint Francis, Chapter 2:1 (FA:ED II, p. 536)
The Legend of the Three Companions, Chapter V:13 (FA:ED II, p. 76)
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