The Museum of Sacred Art of São Paulo presents the book "I, Friar Francis, Small! – The Spiritual Life and Symbolic Language in the Writings of St. Francis of Assisi," authored by Friar Sidney Damasio Machado (OFMCap). The author will deliver a free lecture exploring symbolic language as a key to understanding the spiritual world.
ABOUT THE BOOK
The result of research in spiritual theology and symbolic language, this work examines the autograph writings of Saint Francis of Assisi through symbolic interpretation of two central terms in his spiritual life: the Most High and the Most Holy. Marking 800 years since his passage to eternal life, the book offers deep exploration of the human and spiritual heritage of this charismatic figure, often known only superficially. Francis's message remains relevant through his profound humanity, sensitivity toward creation and Creator, poetic language, contemplative attitude, pedagogical insight, and openness to universal brotherhood. The book enables readers to encounter Francis through his own words and glimpse the treasures of his heart.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Friar Sidney Damasio Machado was born in Joinville (SC) and is a member of the Order of Friars Minor Capuchin (OFMCap). He holds a doctorate in Theology with specialization in spirituality, a master's degree in Spiritual Theology, and a specialization in Church Cultural Heritage from the Pontificia Università Gregoriana in Rome; a specialization in Psychopedagogy and a bachelor's degree in Theology and Philosophy from Brazilian institutions. A sacred artist, he teaches courses in Christian art and iconography. Currently professor at Studium Theologicum (Curitiba), Pontificio Ateneo S. Anselmo (Rome), Escuela Superior de Estudios Franciscanos – ESEF (Madrid), and FACASC (Florianópolis). His publications cover art and architecture for Christian worship, spiritual theology, symbolic language, and iconography of sacred space.
Audience: general public, architects, visual artists, historians, and researchers of Christian sacred art and architecture.
Schedule:
14h00 Welcome and author introduction
14h15 Lecture and book presentation
15h15 Questions
15h30 Coffee break and book signing
Date: August 22, 2026 (Saturday)
Time: 14h00
Registration: not required, subject to capacity
Information: biblioteca@museuartesacra.org.br
Whatsapp: +55 (11) 99144-3223 (messages only)
Venue: Museum of Sacred Art of São Paulo
Address: Avenida Tiradentes, 676 – Luz
Free Parking: Rua Jorge Miranda, 43 – Luz (subject to capacity)
