The Season of Creation Has Begun

The Season of Creation and St. Francis

Dear Friends, 

The Season of Creation is an annual global celebration that unites Christians of all traditions in prayer, reflection and action for the protection of God’s creation. It runs from 1 September (Feast of Creation/World Day of Prayer for Creation) to 4 October (Feast of St Francis of Assisi). The theme for 2026 is ‘Living Water’, based on Ezekiel 47:9,12:

“Wherever the river goes, every living creature that swarms will live, and there will be very many fish once these waters reach there. It will become fresh, and everything will live where the river goes . . . On the banks, on both sides of the river, there will grow all kinds of trees for food. Their leaves will not wither nor their fruit fail, but they will bear fresh fruit every month, because the water for them flows from the sanctuary. Their fruit will be for food and their leaves for healing.”

How appropriate it is that we will be celebrating and witnessing the Baptisms of four people during this Season dedicated to “Living Water” ! You will notice that we are using the Eucharistic Prayer from the Salal and Cedar Community this month. We will be also using several special Collects and Prayers created by our partners around the world over the next few weeks.

Finally, you might recall that I mentioned this year is a special year to celebrate 800 years of St. Francis’ vision. I will say more about this in the weeks to come, but I leave you with this prayer created by The Third Order of the Society of St. Francis:

God of unchangeable power,

when you fashioned the world, the morning stars sang together

and the host of heaven shouted for joy;

Open our eyes to the wonders of creation and teach us to use all

things for good, to the honor of your glorious name;

through Jesus Christ our Lord.

Amen

St. Francis taught us about taking action in the world. Let’s start with this simple action to begin our reflection on the Season of Creation:

Go through the photos in your phone, in a photo album, or throughout your home. Identify at least one photo of a natural place or animal that—for you—has communicated the love and presence of God. Recall the story of your encounter with this place or creature.

Peace and all Good, 

Father Shawn