These are St. Clare and St, Francis’ tunics/habits.  Almost brings me to tears–SO HUMBLE and worn. These are not costumes or regular habits as in uniforms.  These are choices to leave the world of wealth and comfort and to embrace poverty.  Again, Clare and I had a remarkable conversation about her future in St. Clare’s church, where these are.

This is the Cross of San Damiano, from which Christ spoke to Francis: “Francis, rebuild my church.”  Francis spent the next several years repairing the dilapidated structure of the San Damiano church.  He then repaired 2 more churches or chapels falling into ruin.  Only years later, when Francis’ order had been established and had grown by leaps and bounds, and was impacting the whole church throughout Europe, did Francis realize that Christ had meant meant for him to rebuild THE CHURCH!

I got very sick in Assisi, and have been sick until today.  But it seemed providential: prayers for which I waylaid heaven months ago during Lent all came to pass.  I could suddenly see so many things that I had been asking God about but could not see.  I think it was the grace of God that has taken up residence in that holy place!  Thank you God for answering my prayers!