Canticle of the Creatures
Celebrating 800 Years of St. Francis' Canticle of the Creatures
Franciscans worldwide this year are commemorating an 800-year-old prayer that, even in 1225, was a clarion call to protect our common home and live in solidarity with all creation.
Written during a time of personal suffering and illness, Canticle of the Creatures, one of St. Francis of Assisi's most profound and enduring works, expresses St. Francis' deep connection to God through the natural world. Praising Brother Sun, Sister Moon and all living things, the Canticle radiates humility, gratitude and interconnectedness — values that remain at the heart of Franciscan spirituality.
The Canticle of the Creatures Prayer
Narrated by Sister Meg Earsley
AdorationTalk: Canticle of the
Creatures Explained
Narrated by Sister Sarah Hennessey
Brother Sun and Sister Moon Liturgical Dance
Original performance by Affiliate Sharon Laitinen
For the Franciscan Sisters of Perpetual Adoration and their spirituality centers, this anniversary is an opportunity to celebrate and reflect. Throughout 2025, we will host special programs, events and activities inspired by the Canticle's themes: reverence for creation, care for the Earth and living in harmony with one another.
Below are upcoming events and activities; more will be added throughout the year. Please join us in this year of remembrance and renewal.
Canticle-Themed Tablecloth (FSC)
Every Tuesday
5-7 p.m.
Franciscan Spirituality Center, 920 Market Street, La Crosse, WI (Clare Room: Lower Level)
In honor of the 800th anniversary of St. Francis' Canticle of the Creatures, all are invited to stop by the Franciscan Spirituality Center to add their artistic touch to this nature-themed tablecloth. The completed tablecloth will be put on display at future Canticle-related events.
Be Still and Know (online)
May 14
6 - 7:30 p.m.
Online via Zoom
Deepen your relationship with creation through mindfulness and interbeing with nature. We will begin with a 20-minute guided meditation and continue with gentle, slow and sensory explorations. This Association of Nature and Forest Therapy-structured sequence was grown from the Japanese practice of Shinrin-Yoku or "forest bathing." We bathe in the atmosphere of the forest (or the ecosystem we're in) and listen for the voice of the Spirit.
Visit fscenter.org for more information and to register by May 9.
Creative Expression and Reflection with Zentangle (FSC/online)
May 29
5:30 - 7 p.m.
Franciscan Spirituality Center, 902 Market Street, La Crosse, WI or online via Zoom
Using simple and repetitive strokes, the Zentangle method is a creative and enjoyable way to focus, calm the mind and cultivate compassion for oneself and others while creating beautiful abstract art. Many people have found that creating art positively impacts their mental health. Discover your inner artist – no previous art experience is necessary.
Click the following links for more information and to register:
May 29: Mother Earth Mandala
In-person (register by May 26)
Online (register by May 26)
Blessed: Creative Expression & Reflection with Zentangle (FSC)
June 7
9 a.m. - 12 p.m.
Franciscan Spirituality Center, 920 Market Street, La Crosse, WI or online via Zoom
Using simple and repetitive strokes, the Zentangle method is a creative and enjoyable way to focus, calm the mind and cultivate compassion for oneself and others while creating beautiful abstract art. During this workshop, we will embellish the word "BLESSED" and tangle ribbons with Zentangle patterns. Spend a peaceful morning discovering your inner artist!
Click the following links for more information and to register by June 2:
Creek Cleanup in Honor of Sister Water (Prairiewoods)
June 13
9-11 a.m.
Prairiewoods Franciscan Spirituality Center, 120 Boyson Road, Hiawatha, IA
Celebrate the life-giving force of water as depicted in St. Francis of Assisi's The Canticle of the Creatures, in which Sister Water is praised for her clarity, humility and preciousness. Together, we will care for creation by cleaning up our local creek at Prairiewoods, reflecting on our connection to nature and giving thanks for the gift of water.
Visit prairiewoods.org for more information.
Nature Immersions in Love's Creation (FSC)
June 14
9 a.m. - 4 p.m.
FSC hermitages on FSPA land on St. Joseph Ridge, La Crosse, WI
We will expand our embodied awareness of our spirituality and sacred interbeing with the practices of forest therapy, breathwork and gentle body movement. These include guided meditations, individual quiet time, song and group reflections. This retreat is non-judgmental, inclusive and trauma-informed; you can adjust each activity to your needs.
Visit fscenter.org for more information and to register by June 2.
St. Francis Day Mass (St. Rose Convent)
Oct. 4
11 a.m.
Mary of the Angels Chapel, 901 Franciscan Way, La Crosse, WI
All are invited to join us for Mass in honor of St. Francis of Assisi's feast day.