Celebrating 10 years of Laudato Si'
Ten years on from its publication, CAFOD partners and staff consider the impact of this groundbreaking encyclical and how it inspires us to act today.
Sunset over the Atlantic from West Point, Monrovia, Liberia
25 September
Intention
Today we give thanks and praise as we pray that our eyes may be opened to see God’s glory reflected in all the wonders of creation.
Canticle of the Sun
“We praise you, Lord, for all your creatures,
especially for Brother Sun,
who is the day through whom you give us light.”
Reflection
In the Canticle of the Sun, which celebrates its 800th anniversary this year, St Francis praises God for all the wonders of creation. Each element is listed as a brother or a sister, reflecting that we are not set above God’s creation, but are part of it. Everything is interconnected. Everything is good.
In this Season of Creation, we also give thanks and praise for all that God created. Let us commit ourselves once more to showing our gratitude by caring for our common home.
Prayer
Creator God,
we are illuminated by your radiance.
Forgive us for the harm
we cause to your dazzling creation.
Let your light shine upon us, O Lord,
and lead us to follow the example of St Francis,
as we seek to build a better world
and sing a song of praise for all creation.
St Francis, pray for us.
Action
Pope Francis drew inspiration for the title of his encyclical Laudato Si’ (Praised Be), from the opening words of the Canticle of the Sun. Read on to discover the lasting legacy of this encyclical in its tenth anniversary year.
Laudato Si' resources
Find resources to reflect and respond to Laudato Si' in the light of your faith, including prayers, liturgies, a study guide and ideas for practical action.