On Tuesday, Dec. 2, 2025, we will join communities around the world to celebrate Giving Tuesday, a global day of generosity and giving. This day reminds us of our call as Catholics to share our blessings and build up the Body of Christ through our time, talent, and treasure. This year, we are excited to announce that our Giving Tuesday project will focus on adding a large San Damiano Cross to our beautiful chapel.
About the San Damiano Cross
The San Damiano cross is a 12th-century icon-style crucifix that depicts a triumphant, risen Christ, not a suffering one. It’s significant because it’s the cross before which St. Francis of Assisi was praying when he heard the voice of God telling him to “rebuild my church”. The cross is rich with symbolism, including angels, saints, and details from the crucifixion narrative, meant to communicate the full story of Christ’s death, resurrection, and ascension.
At St. Anthony of Padua, we have rich traditions rooted in the witness of generations of Franciscan friars, who faithfully served our parish for almost 100 years. Our patron saint personally knew and followed St. Francis into the Franciscan order. The San Damiano cross represents that invitation we all have to build up Christ’s church with the help of saints like Francis and Anthony.
How do I donate?
1. Visit grdiocese.org/giving-tuesday. It is important that all donations are made through the diocesan giving portal—this increases our chances for challenge grants. Additionally, the diocese is covering all credit card fees for Giving Tuesday donations. This means 100% of your donation will be donated directly to our parish!
2. Complete your donation.
Thank you for your generosity!
Contact:
Ben Novitsky, communications coordinator