Saint Francis’ “The Canticle of the Creatures.”

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In his essay on Saint Francis, G. K. Chesterton said that Francis’, “The Canticle of the Creatures” reveals something of the Saint’s soul. Francis is especially conscious of the fact that everything comes from God and that creatures reflect the goodness of their Creator. Giving thanks to God for His blessings is an essential part of prayer.

The friar from Assisi recognized that none of us are able to be reconcilers or peacemakers until we are able to take the same attitudes that can be seen in Jesus Christ. Only in Christ can we see with any clarity the mysterious ways of God.

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The Canticle of the Creatures

Most High, all-powerful, good Lord,

Yours are the praises, the glory, the honor, and all blessing.

To You alone, Most High, do they belong,

and no one is worthy to mention Your Name.

Praised by You, my Lord, with all Your creatures,

especially 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 to You, Most High One.

Praised by You, my Lord, through sister Moon and the starts,

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.

Praise by 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 by You, my Lord, through Sister Mother Earth,

who sustains and governs us,

and who produces fruits with colored flowers and herbs.

Praise and bless my Lord, and give him thanks

and serve Him with great humility.