ICON FROM THE LADY CHAPEL, ST ANDREW'S CHURCH
The cross in the Lady Chapel at St Andrew's is a copy of a crucifix now in the Basilica of Santa Chiara, Assisi. In his youth St Francis of Assisi had set off to war in hopes of a military career, but he twice heard the voice of God calling him back to Assisi. One day he was praying before a crucifix in the derelict wayside chapel of San Damiano outside the city, when he heard a voice saying "Go, Francis, and repair my house, which you see is falling into ruin". Taking this literally, he sold some of his father's merchandise and gave the money to the priest of San Damiano, who prudently refused it. After further struggles against his father, Francis interpreted the message as a call to the religious life.

The cross was believed to have been made by a Syrian group of monks who were living near Assisi in the 10th century. The figure of Christ is triumphant: standing upright not nailed, his hands outstretched, and wearing a loincloth with gold ties. This clothing is both the symbol of High Priest and victim. He dominates the cross and reminds us "I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life." (John 8:12). The figure is before the empty tomb.

St Francis is supposed to have prayed:

Most High, glorious God, enlighten the shadows of my heart, and grant unto me
a right faith, a certain hope and perfect charity, sense and understanding,
Lord, so that I may accomplish thy holy and true command.



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