The fifth anniversary of Pope Francis’ encyclical "Laudato Si' On Care for Our Common Home" is celebrated this week through May 24. As we adjust to and reflect on this time in our lives, Pope Francis’ writings emphasize his concern for the physical and spiritual health of humanity and the earth. As Franciscans, care for God's gift of creation is at the very heart of who we are. In the video below, hear Pope Francis invite all to celebrate the anniversary of Laudato Si' this week.
Stepping Out in Faith
Sister Nancy Celaschi checked in from Rome with this photo of fig blossoms in bloom at our headquarters there. "The fig blossoms may be on the vine, but here in Rome the Lord continues to care for us," Sister says.
 
Restrictions are ever slowly being lifted in Italy, and our Sisters there are able to cautiously venture out. "I have 'stayed at home' for two months, but there comes a time when I have to go out. Life goes on," Sister Nancy says. "So, instead of a shepherd's staff, I don my (optional but recommended) face mask, put my hand on the door knob and begin to recite the Psalm, "The Lord is my shepherd ... he leads me ... though I walk in the valley of death I fear no evil." New meaning to familiar words.
Mother Earth, Birthing Womb
A poetic excerpt by Sister Barbara DeStefano

All praise be Yours, my Lord, through Sister Earth, our Mother, who feeds us in her sovereignty and produces various fruits, with flowers and herbs.

Like all mothers, Earth has a way of giving of herself and receiving what is given her. She shares life with all who look to her, with all who tread on her soil and eat of her fruits.

Earth is open, receptive, trusting, and vulnerable. She receives the seed that falls to her and dies. She nurses the dying seed, holds it in her arms and close to her heart. She gives it care, puts it to rest, and keeps vigil at its bedside.

And when the seed breaths its final breath, and Sister Death comes for it, Mother Earth does not mourn. She feels no grief -- nor fear, nor loss. For the seed lives in her heart and has impregnated her life-giving womb.

The full poem appears in "Invitations from God," a collection of Sister Barbara's poetry published in 1995.
Health for the Earth is Health for All
Our St. Francis Center for Renewal in Bethlehem, Pa., will be closed through August , but the retreat team continues to reach out with its Beyond Bricks & Mortar online spiritual programs, including tomorrow's program:

What are the similarities between our need for health and well-being during COVID-19 and our needs during everyday life on Earth? Join Marie North, animator and certified sustainable building advisor, as she explores this intersection through the lens of Laudato Si ' . Learn why health for the planet is health for all. 

To take part, you'll need a computer, tablet or smartphone connected to the internet. After you register, you will receive a confirmation email with information on how to join the online program.
NEXT ONLINE PROGRAM
WHY LAUDATO SI' & WHY SHOULD WE CARE?
10 a.m. Thursday, May 21
Freewill Offerings Welcome
Planet & Prayer
Is the natural environment part of your prayer life? You're not alone. Many of our Sisters incorporate outdoor walks (with masks these days) into their daily routines to connect with nature. Among them is Sister Anne Kutch, who has made the most of extra time during stay-at-home restrictions to enjoy outdoor meditation. In good times and bad, nature can bring a sense of calm, as Sister Gracy Kundukulam (shown here) discovered while praying at Monocacy Creek in Bethlehem, Pa., last summer.
Stewardship to Serve
Caring for the earth and harvesting its gifts is the means by which our Monocacy Farm Project in Bethlehem, Pa., serves God's people. Here, volunteer Helen McComb tends to young plants in the farm greenhouse. In a few months, this work will produce healthy fruits and vegetables to be distributed to needy families in Pennsylvania's Lehigh Valley.
Stewardship in Small Ways
Simple at-home activities like gardening, conserving water and recycling have an impact on our planet. For example, Sister Joyce Burkhart (above), an experienced green thumb, enjoys caring for the many indoor plants at Mt. Assisi Place in Pittsburgh. In what little ways do you contribute to the well-being of Mother Earth?

The Vine & The Branches:
No Better Connection
"We awake each day wondering will this pandemic ever end? How we long to get back to living our lives as we knew them! Jesus tells us, 'Do not lose heart ... remain in Me as I in you. I am the vine, you are the branches. I have loved You just as the Father has loved me. Remain in My love ... Come to Me and I will give you rest ... (John 15 and Mt. 11:28).' May these loving words of Jesus touch your heart and bring you renewed strength and energy."
-- Sister Georgette Dublino
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