Brother Francis

Today we celebrate the Feast of St. Francis of Assisi. Because of Francis' love of creation, he often comes to mind as a patron saint of ecology and of all creatures great and small. This weekend, many of our cluster parishes will honor Francis' memory by holding a "Blessing of the Animals."

Another way we connect to Francis, is in peacemaking-- to carry out "The Peace Prayer of St. Francis" -- "Make me a channel of your peace."

Yet another connection comes in God's call to Francis, "Rebuild my church." Even Francis didn't get it right the first time -- putting his energy into literally rebuilding the bricks and mortar dilapidated chapel in which he first heard God speak. And, then coming to a further realization, that God was calling him to build a church community. The community where the Gospel was told even "using words if necessary." This church of Living Stones is harder to build than the church of bricks and mortar -- primarily because we are human. But that doesn't mean that we should stop trying to be church or to live the Gospel.

Ecologist. Peacemaker. Poet. Activist. Community builder. Blessings for The Feast of St. Francis-- whoever you are!

May the Lord bless you and keep you; May the Lord show his face to you and have compassion on you! May He turn his face to you and give you peace! Amen.