St. Francis of Assisi stands as one of the most beloved figures in Christian history because he so beautifully reflected the heart of Jesus. His feast day on October 4th invites us to remember a man who lived with extraordinary gentleness, humility and joy. Francis was someone who saw every creature and person as a gift from God. Francis embodied peace, love and harmony in an unbalanced world burdened by conflict and division. His life reminds us that discipleship in Christ honors and protects the sacred status of all that God has made.

On Saturday, October 3rd, from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM, the Prince of Peace congregation will celebrate St. Francis’ ministry with pet-blessing prayers and a food drive supporting the WholeSum Food Pantry. These two acts of caring for our pets and sharing with our neighbors are complimentary. They emphasize a Christ centered vision of true community characterized by peace, harmony and balance. Francis understood at deep level that love is meant to overflow in our lives. As a result, the tenderness we show our pets, who bring joy, companionship and healing into our homes, is the same tenderness Christ calls us to share with all who are vulnerable and in need. As we pray in thanksgiving to God for our pets, we also bless the extended human community by sharing food with our hungry neighbors.

Francis is often considered a patron saint of environmental stewardship. I sense that his witness feels especially urgent today. This world is groaning under the weight of pollution, climate change and neglect. Francis teaches us that creation is not a resource to be exploited but a sacred trust to be tended. As we gather in his spirit this October, may we recommit ourselves to caring for the earth, loving our pets as gifts from God and extending compassion to our neighbors. In doing so I sense that we will be honoring St. Francis’ memory, and even more deeply we will be conduits of the gracious presence of Jesus Christ whose love embraces and sustains every living thing.