This verse immediately makes me think of St. Francis of Assisi. Each year on October 4 many liturgical churches celebrate the Feast of St. Francis. The Feast recognizes the life of St. Francis who is the Catholic Church’s patron saint of animals and the environment. It has become a good day to have a blessing of the animals service.
My wife, Rev. Shirley Ross—Jones, began having a blessing of the animals service at the congregation she served in Louisville, Kentucky. She continues that practice at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Alpena, Michigan. She will have one this year on Saturday, October 7 at 10:30 A.M. in the church parking area.
The service is generally held around October 4 to honor St. Francis and to bless the animals that are brought to the event. She also prays for the caretakers of the animals. It is a wonderful service for those who love their pets as well as reminding them that God loves their animals just as the Lord loves humans. If you are in the area and have a pet, please come by!
This verse reminds us that God loves and cares for all of creation, humans, and animals alike. St. Francis is also remembered for his work and ministry with the poor and the lepers, besides his love for all of creation. May your spiritual pilgrimage open your heart and may it be filled with love for humans, animals, and the environment that God loves with an everlasting love!
Lord of the cosmos, may your Holy Spirit help me to see your presence in all of creation and inspire me to be a good steward of the gifts that are all around me! Amen.
Copyright © 2017 Vernon T. Jones, All Rights Reserved