Called to Praise God for Noble-Winged Creatures

Paul Keggington

May 11, 2010
Bird watching continues to be a well-loved sport for some Franciscan Sisters of Christian Charity. Recall St.
Franciscan Bird Feeding Station

Franciscan Sisters of Christian Charity enjoy watching God's colorful-winged creatures.

Francis spotting a great number of winged creatures on a trip with his friars through the Spoleto Valley near the town of Bevagna. The birds included doves, crows and all sorts. Francis filled with awe said to them:  

“My brother birds, you should greatly praise your Creator and love Him always: He gave you feathers to wear, wings to fly and whatever you need. God made you noble among His creatures and gave you a home in the purity of the air, so that, though you neither sow nor reap.” (Celano I, Chapter XXI)

Francis blessed the birds giving them permission to fly off to another direction. Then with great rejoicing  the friars gave thanks to God while traveling on his way. From that day on, Francis made a habit to carefully exhort all winged creatures, all animals and reptiles to praise and love their Creator. (On another day this saint also quieted a flock of noisy birds that were interrupting his preaching!)

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(Photos: Sister Louise Hembrecht, OSF)

Do you have any favorite bird photos to share? Any stories of appreciation and inspiration about God’s winged creatures?

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