http://www.reigningcats.net/Pix_sandamiano.jpgSince the image of which you speak, reproduced here, is indeed a crucifix, it doesn’t appear that there would be any difficulty with using it as an altar crucifix, particularly in a Franciscan church because the image is very much a part of Franciscan spirituality. The image is believed to have been the one that “spoke” to St. Francis of Assisi, directing him to “Rebuild my Church.” If I remember correctly, the original San Damiano Crucifix was the altar crucifix in the church of San Damiano, where St. Francis is said to have experienced the apparition.
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