Francis of Assisi

Many contemporary Anglicans remember Francis of Assisi in his connection to animals and nature.  In recent years, it has become popular for Anglican parishes to hold a special "Blessing of the Animals" service on the Sunday closest to his commemorative day, which is October 4 in our liturgical calendar.  Some parishes prefer to hold these services at other times in early October instead.


We aren't holding such a service at St. Cyprian's this year, but if you are so inclined, these parishes in the Diocese of Calgary will be doing so:

• St. Clement, Balzac - October 6, 10:00 a.m.
• St. Martin, Calgary jointly with the Cathedral Church of the Redeemer - Saturday, October 12, 11:00 a.m.

Aside from his apparent ability to relate with birds and beasts alike, Francis is remembered for his founding of the Franciscan Order of Friars Minor, as well as the women's Order of St. Clare (in conjunction with Clare of Assisi, one of Francis' first followers), and for those not aspiring to Holy Orders, the Third Order of St. Francis.  There is even a Third Order of the Society of St. Francis for Anglicans and others who do not worship in the Roman Catholic tradition.  

Known also for his love of the Eucharist and as the originator of the tradition of the Christmas creche or Nativity Scene, Francis is not only the Patron Saint of Animals in the Roman Catholic tradition, but also one of only two Patron Saints of Italy (the other being Catherine of Sienna).

This writer, however, most fondly remembers him when she sings this musical adaptation of what we know as "The Prayer of St. Francis":

May you have a blessed day!