Today is the Feast of St. Francis of Assisi

Laudes Creaturarum

Be praised, my Lord, through Brother Fire,
through whom you brighten the night.
He is beautiful and cheerful, and powerful and strong.

Be praised, my Lord, through our sister Mother Earth,
who feeds us and rules us,
and produces various fruits with colored flowers and herbs.

Be praised, my Lord, through those who forgive for love of you;
through those who endure sickness and trial.

Happy those who endure in peace,
for by you, Most High, they will be crowned.

Be praised, my Lord, through our Sister Bodily Death,
from whose embrace no living person can escape.
Woe to those who die in mortal sin!
Happy those she finds doing your most holy will.
The second death can do no harm to them.

Praise and bless my Lord, and give thanks,
and serve him with great humility.

Today, all over the world people will gather on the steps of churches with creatures of all shapes, sizes and species. Today, some of my very favorite creatures will gather on the steps of Our Lady of Vilnius to pray for the resurrection of our spiritual home. St. Francis, pray for us!