The Sisters of the Atonement gathered in the olive grove at their Retreat House in Assisi for the inauguration and the unveiling of the sculpture of St. Francis donated by
Frederick Franck of Warwick, NY
Sister Alessandra gave the welcoming address (translated in English) and Fr. Joseph Callipare gave a reflection on “God’s Creation: Renewed, Refreshed, Rebuilt, the spirit of St. Francis”.
St. Francis appears majestic in the steel sculpture with his arms lifting to the blue sky, crowned by black birds flying around him. The rich base on which the sculpture stands is beautifully surrounded by flowers and olive trees. The bishop blessed the sculpture with an olive branch and holy water and also blessed those in attendance with St. Francis blessing.
The Guest House has recently been reopened after being closed for two years, due to the earthquake Now the sculpture of St. Francis in the garden stands as a sign of joy, of hope, reminding us of Jesus, “Let whoever sees this image, see Jesus and like Francis, become His living icon.”
You can download and see a video, prepared by Cateye Media, showing the unveiling of this statue - it requires the Real Player (basic or plus).