A profile of the patron saint of animals and ecology:
St. Francis of Assisi, known as the patron saint of animals and the environment could be viewed as the original Earth Day advocate. Francis’ devotion to God was expressed through his love for all of God’s creation. St. Francis cared for the poor and sick, he preached sermons to animals and praised all creatures as brothers and sisters under God.Â
The Feast of St. Francis and the Blessing of the AnimalsÂ
Every year on or around October 4, Christians throughout the world celebrate the Feast of St. Francis with prayers for creation and a blessing of the animals. Services in the United States currently occur in 47 states and the District of Columbia.
Francis of Assisi left his worldly possessions and gave his life to God. On his feast day today, ask for his help in giving up something that distracts you from your relationship with God.
Ask the patron saint of animals to protect your furry, feathery, or scaly friends too.
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