Canticle of Creation
As a result of a life worshiping His Lord, Saint Francis ended up praising the Lord's creation: our entire world. He specially loved every living creature, for them he wrote its "Canticle of the creatures".
This beautiful prayer is known by several names, it was written in Umbrian language, and its one of the most beautiful pieces of religious poetry after the Gospels. The most complete and lyrical expression of the soul and spirituality of Francis. The date of its composition is the autumn of 1225, possibly in San Damiano.
Several diseases, malnourishment and fever consumed St. Francis, but his spiritual life was in the best shape, and made him sang for everyone, for you and me; for men and stars; for creatures and plants; for all this nature that Christ reconciled and pacified on his cross. Francisco interpreted the silent song that all creation gives to God, and the silent melody that God sings in creation. And he did it because he was in last place, and so he could be first. Because he was the humblest of servants, and this allowed him to understand like no one else the greatness of his Lord.
The Canticle of Creation
O Most High, all-powerful, good Lord God,
to you belong praise, glory,
honour and all blessing.
Be praised, my Lord, for all your creation
and especially for our Brother Sun,
who brings us the day and the light;
he is strong and shines magnificently.
O Lord, we think of you when we look at him.
Be praised, my Lord, for Sister Moon,
and for the stars
which you have set shining and lovely
in the heavens.
Be praised, my Lord,
for our Brothers Wind and Air
and every kind of weather
by which you, Lord,
uphold life in all your creatures.
Be praised, my Lord, for Sister Water,
who is very useful to us,
and humble and precious and pure.
Be praised, my Lord, for Brother Fire,
through whom you give us light in the darkness:
he is bright and lively and strong.
Be praised, my Lord,
for Sister Earth, our Mother,
who nourishes us and sustains us,
bringing forth
fruits and vegetables of many kinds
and flowers of many colours.
Be praised, my Lord,
for those who forgive for love of you;
and for those
who bear sickness and weakness
in peace and patience
- you will grant them a crown.
Be praised, my Lord, for our Sister Death,
whom we must all face.
I praise and bless you, Lord,
and I give thanks to you,
and I will serve you in all humility.
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