For us, the greatest reward in creating sacred art isn’t simply finishing a project—it’s knowing that our work becomes a living part of the Catholic Church’s mission and ministries.
Recently, we received a deeply touching letter from Father Don of the Capuchin Friars College in Papua New Guinea. It was written in gratitude for the San Damiano stained-glass cross we designed to honor their priests. Letters like his remind us why we do what we do: serving the Church, one sacred design at a time.
"Dear Rolf & Francesca,
Pace e bene! Happy Easter!
A few days after your email arrived...I received a call from the builder saying that they needed to see the San Damiano stained-glass window. I have been very protective and cautious about the window and so it has been safely stored until it needed to be opened...So I rushed to where the window was being stored and they began to open the crate. Our vice-provincial was also here so he came along. The architect also happened to be here for a meeting and so he was there too for the grand opening...When they finally got the crate opened and the crucifix was removed...a great, reverential hush came over everyone...like in church or in a museum or something...it was really amazing. We were all awe-struck by the beauty of the window...I practically had to choke back the tears—I was overwhelmed. The beauty of the colors, the detail...it was as if we were all transported to the little hermitage of San Damiano in the 1200’s when Saint Francis first prayed there...It was a religious experience for all of us...The builder says that he thinks that in about three weeks we will be at the half way mark. They would like to finish the project by September...They are not ready to place the window yet...I will keep you informed about that...When the whole chapel and other buildings are to be dedicated, I will let you all know...If you are anywhere in this part of the world, it would be wonderful to have you here...but if not you will be here in spirit....and you will always be here through the awesome beauty of this exquisite piece of sacred art. Wishing you abundant blessings on you, your families, your companies and all your endeavours and plans.
Pace e bene! Happy Easter!
A few days after your email arrived...I received a call from the builder saying that they needed to see the San Damiano stained-glass window. I have been very protective and cautious about the window and so it has been safely stored until it needed to be opened...So I rushed to where the window was being stored and they began to open the crate. Our vice-provincial was also here so he came along. The architect also happened to be here for a meeting and so he was there too for the grand opening...When they finally got the crate opened and the crucifix was removed...a great, reverential hush came over everyone...like in church or in a museum or something...it was really amazing. We were all awe-struck by the beauty of the window...I practically had to choke back the tears—I was overwhelmed. The beauty of the colors, the detail...it was as if we were all transported to the little hermitage of San Damiano in the 1200’s when Saint Francis first prayed there...It was a religious experience for all of us...The builder says that he thinks that in about three weeks we will be at the half way mark. They would like to finish the project by September...They are not ready to place the window yet...I will keep you informed about that...When the whole chapel and other buildings are to be dedicated, I will let you all know...If you are anywhere in this part of the world, it would be wonderful to have you here...but if not you will be here in spirit....and you will always be here through the awesome beauty of this exquisite piece of sacred art. Wishing you abundant blessings on you, your families, your companies and all your endeavours and plans.
Love and prayers,
Fr. Don, ofm cap."
We are humbled by his words and grateful to have played a small part in the creation of their sacred space. We’ll be cheering them on as they complete their seminary, and we send our heartfelt prayers for continued blessings on their ministry.
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