Disciples, Apostles, and Saints!
St. Francis is perhaps best remembered for his joy and preservation of creation and his love of animals, which is why the church most commonly honors his memory in blessing pets and animals. Of our saints and practices, this is perhaps the most generous and enjoyable.
Francis was not canonized for his love of animals, however, but for his devotion and selflessness. He founded an ascetic order that would become the Franciscans in the early 13th century around the principle of living in intentional poverty, honoring God’s commitment to the poor, and drawing a conscious commitment to serving the poor through poverty.
The borders of our attention: be they financial or species: restrict our vision for generosity and camaraderie, and yet also delight and joy. Francis shows how much joy and freedom is found in owning nothing and loving everything.
Join us this Sunday, October 6 at 4 pm in the Mabley Garden at St. Stephen’s for the annual Blessing of the Animals! We will gather in the splendor of creation for a short service of prayer, blessing, and remembrance.
With love,
Drew