by St. Francis of Assisi
Most High, all-powerful, good Lord,
Yours are the praises, the glory, and all blessing;
To You alone, Most High, do they belong,
And no mortal lips are worthy to utter Your name.
Praised be You, my Lord, through Brother Sun,
Who brings the dawn and lights the day,
Radiant with splendor, a symbol of You, O Most High!
Praised be You, my Lord, through Sister Moon and Stars—
In heaven You formed them, bright, precious, and fair.
Praised be You, my Lord, through Brothers Wind and Air,
Through clouds and storms and every sky’s mood,
By whom You sustain all life in Your care.
Praised be You, my Lord, through Sister Water,
So humble, so precious, so pure and alive,
A servant to all, Your goodness declaring.
Praised be You, my Lord, through Brother Fire,
Who dances at night with warmth and delight,
Strong and untamed, he kindles our hearts.
Praised be You, my Lord, through Sister Earth,
Who nourishes us with fruits, herbs, and flowers,
And lends us her strength for life’s sacred worth.
Praised be You, my Lord, through those who forgive
For love of Your name, who bear pain and trial—
Blessed are they who endure in Your peace;
By You, Most High, shall they be crowned.
Praised be You, my Lord, through Sister Bodily Death,
From whom no living soul can flee—
Woe to those who die in despair,
But blessed are they who answer Your call,
For Death shall not steal their light.
Praise and bless my Lord, give thanks and adore,
With humble hearts, serve Him forevermore.
This canticle embodies St. Francis’s deep connection to creation as a reflection of divine love. Each element—sun, moon, wind, water, fire, earth—is personified as kin, illustrating the interconnectedness of all life. The closing lines emphasize acceptance of mortality and the call to live in harmony with God’s will.
