Saint Damien University Center

A space for life and transformation

Abstract

In a world of symbols, cultural forms and roots on which human activity is based, it is necessary to recall events and meanings in order to better understand the presence of the Friars Minor Capuchin in Pasto, and currently also in the village of Catambuco with the “Saint Damien University Center”.

The article tries to gather some key elements that refer to the relationship between the Church of Saint Damien, the crucifx, the life of St. Francis of Assisi and his charism. The name Damien is familiar to the Franciscans, and of course, to the Friars Minor Capuchin from which the essential work of CESMAG University springs, and whose origin comes from the Franciscan spirituality. This research intends to answer the questions: why is it called “Saint Demian University Center””? And who is Saint Demian?. It also helps to look at Saint Demian and the Capuchins; the sense and meaning of the Christ of Saint Demian; and St. Francis of Assisi: from symbol to action. The fnal part of this research, refers to the challenge of CESMAG University moving from the symbol to the commitment with the youth of Nariño and with the place chosen to sustain the mind and spirit with the treasures of science and spirituality.