As Franciscans, our view of the environment is deeply rooted in the teachings and life of St. Francis of Assisi, born in 1181 in Italy and considered the patron saint of ecology. St. Francis did much more than preach to birds and animals. He was acutely aware of the interconnectedness of all creation and the importance of living in harmony with nature. St. Francis’ deep connection to nature and all living creatures is a central aspect of his legacy. In St. Francis’ Canticle of the Creatures, he praises God through the elements of creation, recognizing their intrinsic value.

“Laudato Si’,” Pope Francis’ encyclical on the environment, draws deeply from the Franciscan tradition, particularly the teachings of St. Francis of Assisi. St. Francis' reverence for nature is a central theme in the encyclical. Reading “Laudato Si’” and further reflection with a study guide allowed me to grapple with answering the proposed questions. This resulted in some soul-searching as I contemplated my thoughts, words, and deeds concerning the environment. I had to look closely at my awareness of the interconnectedness of all creation and question whether I was living in harmony with nature.

In “Laudato Si’,” Pope Francis emphasizes that our common home, Earth, is like a sister who cries out because of the harm inflicted upon her by human activity. How am I harming my sister? What can I do to help relieve Earth’s pain?

Pope Francis calls for a radical change in human behavior to address environmental degradation and climate change. The importance of an integral ecology that connects environmental, economic, and social issues is stressed. This holistic approach mirrors the Franciscan view of the world as a web of relationships, where every creature has a role and value.

Unfortunately, circumstances have changed. “With the passage of time,” Pope Francis writes in “Laudate Deum,” “I have realized that our responses have not been adequate, while the world in which we live is collapsing and may be nearing the breaking point. In addition to this possibility, it is indubitable that the impact of climate change will increasingly prejudice the lives and families of many persons. We will feel its effects in the areas of healthcare, sources of employment, access to resources, housing, forced migrations, etc.” Global climate change has become a climate crisis.

Hopefully, our blinders have been removed, and we can see clearly and move from denial to increased action and awareness. We must turn to new ways of living and being, following more closely the way of St. Francis. In order to survive, a life of simplicity, humility, and harmony with nature is required. We must abandon the creed of “work more, earn more, and consume more.” We learn to go against the grain of consumerism, take responsibility for the whole lifecycle, including the hidden environmental costs of the goods we purchase, and begin to make sacrifices on behalf of Mother Earth. We are called to care for our common home.

Inspired by St. Francis’ life of poverty and simplicity, Franciscans advocate for a lifestyle that minimizes environmental harm. This includes reducing consumption and living sustainably. Franciscans are committed to addressing environmental issues disproportionately affecting the poor and marginalized. We believe in advocating for policies and practices that protect vulnerable communities and promote social justice.

Sr. Chala Hill, FHM
Franciscan Handmaids of the Most Pure Heart of Mary