St. Francis is most well known for his love and understanding of the natural world that surrounds us each day. While life for St. Francis looked vastly different than what we are living through in 2020, there are still many ways we can celebrate his vision of a healthier world.
Check out a few ways you and your family can celebrate the Feast of St. Francis of Assisi this Sunday, October 4, 2020.
1. Pray One of the Prayers of St. Francis at Family Dinner
St. Francis wanted us all to live life as God truly intended; caring for those in need and dedicating our lives to His love and forgiveness. One great reminder St. Francis left with us is his "Prayer Before the Crucifix." This is a good prayer to commit to memory as a reminder to use our daily lives to carry out the true mission of the Lord.
Most High, glorious God, enlighten the darkness of my heart and give me true faith, certain hope, and perfect charity, sense and knowledge, Lord, that I may carry out Your holy and true command. Amen.
After praying together, discuss ways your family might be able to better carry out God's mission in our lives.
2. Donate a Box of Gently Used Items to Charity
One positive thing the extra time at home during the pandemic has produced is the renewed sense of living a tidy and minimally cluttered life. One way to celebrate the Feast of St. Francis is to think of those less fortunate and donate useful items to your local charities. With the colder months fast approaching, now might be the time to donate the bag of old socks and gloves your kids have outgrown.
As each member of your family chooses items to donate, discuss the concepts of gratitude and contentment.
3. Take a Clean-Up Walk Around the Neighborhood
St. Francis was committed to the health and safety of the world around us. Another way to celebrate his legacy is by taking a walk around your neighborhood or local park and picking up litter and debris. Just be sure you protect yourself, and your family, with gloves and masks.
While on your walk, talk about different ways you could help make the environment better each day.
4. Bless Your Pets
For many of us, our pets are an important part of our families. Take a moment to say thanks to all the positivity and joy these animals add to our lives. Many local parishes hold special pet blessing events during the Feast of St. Francis. Check with your local parish and see if you can't take Fido for a special blessing.
While on your way to get your furbaby blessed, talk about ways you can help the voice of animals be heard.
Bless you sisters for your most wonderful words, especially suggesting that families discuss how to help the voices of animals be heard. It’s a mission I myself am on, thanks in vast part to our brother, Saint Francis of Assisi.