Francis Oppong Acheampong, OFM
The famous Canticle of the Creatures, also known as the Canticle of Brother Sun, written by Saint Francis of Assisi in the early 13th century, is one of the earliest known works of Italian literature. What stands out most to me is not just its historical significance, but the spirit behind it. Saint Francis, in his simplicity, teaches us to see creation not as an object to be exploited, but as family: brother, sister, and mother.
In the Canticle, Francis praises God through the sun, moon, stars, wind, water and fire. Each element is seen as a gift that reflects God’s glory. I find it powerful that he even praises God “through Sister Death.” For many of us, death is frightening, but Francis names it as part of the journey toward God. This challenges me to reconsider how I face difficulties, whether loss, uncertainty, or the end of certain chapters in my life, not as curses, but as companions that guide me back to God.
I experienced something of this spirit one Saturday while walking along the river in Edmonton. As I walked, I heard birds singing, saw the calm flow of the water, and watched a beautiful sunset spread its colors across the sky. Then I noticed in a neighbor’s yard some flowers of many colors, and a woman carefully tending them. The sight reminded me how each of us is called to participate in caring for life and for Mother Earth. At the same time, the wind was blowing gently, adding to the beauty of the moment. In all this, I felt the same wonder Francis must have felt, the desire to praise God through creation itself.
In our world today, marked by environmental destruction and neglect, it feels urgent to listen to Francis’s vision again. To call the earth our “sister” is to honor her, care for her, and treat her with respect. The Canticle challenges us to live with joy, humility, and reverence for all that surrounds us.
At its heart, this hymn is an invitation: to find God not only in prayer or church but also in the rising sun, in the clear night sky, in the breath of wind, and in the people we meet. It reminds me that the spiritual life is not an escape from the world but a deeper presence within it.
Br. Francis Oppong Acheampong, OFM lives in Edmonton. He draws inspiration from nature, daily experiences, and faith to connect spiritual lessons with ordinary life.
