‘The Canticle of the Sun’ is a prayer/ hymn attributed to St. Francis of Assisi. It identifies some of the various elements of creation as sisters and brothers to humanity, and calls upon all of nature to praise God. While the language of the prayer is that of St Francis’ time, praying this prayer alone or with others might be one way of celebrating the feast of St. Francis during this October.
May St Francis inspire us to become “more deeply aware that we live within one web of life: our common home”. May we be drawn into a deeper awareness of Divine Energy animating all of life.
Most High, all-powerful, all-good Lord,
All praise is Yours, all glory, honour and blessings.
To you alone, Most High, do they belong;
no mortal lips are worthy to pronounce Your Name.
We praise You for all Your creatures,
especially for Brother Sun,
who is the day through whom You give us light.
He is beautiful and radiant with great splendour,
of You Most High, he bears Your likeness.
We praise You for Sister Moon and the stars,
in the heavens You have made them bright, precious and fair.
We praise You for Brothers Wind and Air,
fair and stormy, all weather’s moods,
by which You cherish all that You have made.
We praise You, for Sister Water,
so useful, humble, precious and pure.
We praise You for Brother Fire,
through whom You light the night.
He is beautiful, playful, robust, and strong.
We praise You for Sister Earth,
who sustains us
with her fruits, coloured flowers and herbs.
We praise You for those who pardon,
or who for love of You bear sickness and trial.
Blessed are those who endure in peace,
by You they will be crowned.
We praise You for Sister Death,
from whom no-one living can escape.
Woe to those who die in their sins!
Blessed are those that She finds doing Your Will.
No second death can do them harm.
We praise and bless You Lord,
give You thanks,
and humbly serve You.
“In a spirit of joy and contemplation we respond with compassion and love”.
(May 2016 Congregtaional Forum, Invitation and Call)