Earth Day

Celebrating Earth’s Abundance

On Earth Day, let us renew our awareness of this planet’s abundant gifts and the graciousness of their Giver.

Sister Mary Patrice and other Cluny Sisters celebrate the gift of creation. This Gingko tree was planted in 1848 by Blessed Anne-Marie on the Motherhouse grounds in Paris, France. Firmly rooted in the fertile earth, exposed to sun and wind, this gingko has flourished for 160 years. It is a symbol of longevity, peace, hope and healing.





Canticle of the Sun

This prayer, written in 1225 by St. Francis of Assisi, honors the elements, the animals, the heavens, and the earth.  It has been adapted in poetry and song for centuries, and is perhaps most familiar as the song "Morning Has Broken" by Cat Stevens. Francis believed that everything in the natural world was a gift from God and, as such, deserved to be appreciated and valued. Because of this, Francis refers to the sun, wind, air, and fire as his brothers, and to the moon, stars, earth, water, and death as his sisters.

   

Most high, omnipotent, good Lord,

Praise, glory and honor and benediction all, are Yours.

To You alone do they belong, most High,

And there is no one fit to mention You.

Praise be to You, my Lord, with all Your creatures,

Especially to my worshipful brother sun,

That which lights up the day, and through him You brightness give;

And beautiful is he and radiant with splendor great;

Of You, most High, signification gives.

Praised be my Lord, for sister moon and for the stars,

In heaven You have formed them clear and precious and fair.

Praised be my Lord for brother wind

And for the air and clouds and fair and every kind of weather,

By that which You give to Your creatures nourishment.

Praised be my Lord for sister water,

That which is greatly helpful and humble and precious and pure.

Praised be my Lord for brother fire,

By the which You lightest up the dark.

And fair is he and gay and mighty and strong.

Praised be my Lord for our sister, mother earth,

That which sustains and keeps us

And brings forth diverse fruits with grass and flowers bright.

Praised be my Lord for those who for Your love forgive

And weakness bear tribulation.

Blessed those who shall in peace endure,

For by You, most High, shall they be crowned.