What would we do without our animal friends? The bond between people and their animals is often more uncomplicated and pure than between human friends, and pets are a lifeline to people who are lonely and isolated. In recognition for the great gift of animals in our lives we are following the tradition that associates animals with St Francis who was said to have a particular affinity for creation. Join us on the WTH lawn (2023 NW Hoyt Street) on October 4th at noon to bless your animal or a photo of your animal.
The Canticle of all Creatures
Most High, all-powerful, good Lord,
Yours are the praises, the glory, and the honor, and all blessing, To You alone, Most
High, do they belong,
and no human is worthy to mention Your name.
Praise be You, my Lord, with all Your creatures,
especially Sir Brother Sun,
who is the day and through whom You give us light.
And he is beautiful and radiant with great splendor;
and bears a likeness of You, Most High One.
Praised be You, my Lord, through Sister Moon and the stars,
in heaven You formed them clear and precious and beautiful.
Praised be You, my Lord, through Brother Wind,
and through the air, cloudy and serene, and every kind of weather,
through whom You give sustenance to Your creatures.
Praised be You, my Lord, through Sister Water,
who is very useful and humble and precious and chaste.
Praised be You, my Lord, through Brother Fire,
through whom You light the night,
and he is beautiful and playful and robust and strong.
Praised be You, my Lord, through our Sister Mother Earth,
who sustains and governs us, and who produces various fruit with colored flowers and
herbs.
Praised be You, my Lord, through those who give pardon for Your love,
and bear infirmity and tribulation.
Blessed are those who endure in peace
for by You, Most High, shall they be crowned.
Praised be You, my Lord, through our Sister Bodily Death,
from whom no one living can escape.
Woe to those who die in mortal sin.
Blessed are those whom death will find in Your most holy will,
for the second death shall do them no harm.
Praise and bless my Lord and give Him thanks
and serve Him with great humility.