Something for Lent

By Tony Staley
Compass Editor

Catholics looking for Lenten reading on their 40-day journey may find a welcome companion in Susan Saint Sing's new book, Francis and the San Damiano Cross (St. Anthony Messenger Press, Cincinnati, Ohio).

	L e n t
	• Everyday People, Everyday Faith articles
	• Other Lent articles

Saint Sing has a doctorate in sport history and philosophy from Penn State University and was on the 1993 U.S. World Rowing Team. The book tells of her journey to Assisi, the life of Francis and its relation to the San Damiano Cross, which originally hung in the church where Francis was praying when Christ told him to rebuild his church.

The San Damiano Cross was painted in the 12th century by an unknown Umbrian artist. It is what's called an icon cross because it includes images of people who form part of its meaning.

Saint Sing writes about the setting, the principal people in the life of Francis, the images on the cross and the story of Francis. In the chapters that focus on the cross she describes a portion of it, the response of Francis to it and how we could respond.

Saint Sing's book is especially helpful to use while meditating on the San Damiano Cross.