After this summer in Ireland, we don’t have to imagine burnt earth, dry and cracked soil, desert and depleted resources of water. If we were lukewarm before about ‘Care for our Common Home’ or cynical about ‘Laudato Si’ we have an opportunity to revisit those views by immersing ourselves in the celebration of the Season of Creation in our liturgies and our communities (everything doesn’t happen inside the church building) from September 1 to October 4 (Feast of St Francis of Assisi).

 Most High, all-powerful, all-good Lord,
all praise is yours, all glory, honour and blessings.
To you alone, Most High, do they belong;
no mortal lips are worthy to pronounce your name.

We praise you, Lord, for all your creatures,
especially for Brother Sun,
who is the day through whom you give us light.
And he is beautiful and radiant with great splendour, of you Most High, he bears your likeness.

We praise you, Lord, for Sister Moon and the stars,
in the heavens you have made them bright, precious and fair.
We praise you, Lord, for Brothers Wind and Air,
fair and stormy, all weather’s moods,
by which you cherish all that you have made.

We praise you, Lord, for Sister Water,
so useful, humble, precious and pure.

We praise you, Lord, for Brother Fire,
through whom you light the night.
He is beautiful, playful, robust, and strong.

We praise you, Lord, for Sister Earth,
who sustains us with her fruits, coloured flowers, and herbs.

We praise and bless you, Lord, and give you thanks,
and serve you in all humility.

Extract from Canticle of the Sun—St Francis of  Assisi