The oldest surviving depiction of Saint Francis
Creationtide (also called the Season of Creation) finishes on 4 October, the Feast Day of Saint Francis of Assisi. St Francis (1189-1226 AD) was the son of a businessman and gave up a life of privilege to serve God. He is venerated by the Church of England, and other Christian denominations. Traditionally animals are bought into churches to be blessed on this day. St Francis is associated with nature and is seen as patron of animals and ecology. Below, are stories associated with Francis’ life that might inspire you this Creationtide.
Canticle of the Sun
St Francis wrote this song in his native dialect, he is seen as one of Italy’s first poets in its own language. The Canticle sings of all Creation as related to us, as our brothers and sisters, we are bound to Creation in sibling love.
Laudato si, mi Signore, per sora nostra matre Terra,
la quale ne sustenta et gouerna
Praised be You, my Lord, through Sister Mother Earth,
who sustains us and governs us
To help you praise Creation, Green Anglicans, led by The Revd Rachel Mash, have produced a detailed resource booklet including full sermons linked to lectionary readings and more.
Wolf of Gubbio
St Francis was living in Gubbio which was being terrorised by a fierce wolf. He went out and negotiated with them and the wolf agreed to stop persecuting Gubbio, in return the townspeople decided to feed the wolf for the rest of its life.
If you want to work with nature, the Eco Church scheme provides churches a path to bring nature into their church life.
Nativity
St Francis created the first nativity scene using real animals, to add realism to the miracle of Jesus’ birth and illustrate how animals were also witnesses to the birth of our Saviour.
Your church can also bring Creation into your practice of worship, an information document is available by Roots Ecumenical Partnership, on creating a ‘Forest Church’ style outdoor act of worship – it was created for COVID but still relevant to those wanting to take part.
Preaching to the birds
St Francis was travelling with his friends when he came across a flock of birds in the trees. He was inspired to preach to them, calling them his ‘sisters’. Francis believed all of Creation should hear the Word of God.
Birds are under threat in the UK, A Rocha’s Target 25 has identified 25 threatened species and habitats in the UK which you can support.
There are many ways you can get involved in Creationtide. Whether it be making a lifestyle change, praying, or hosting a dedicated service or event as a church – there is something for everyone. Have a look at the resources on the Church of England Website for some planning inspiration.
