All Creatures of Our God and King....

On this feast of St Francis of Assisi -- probably the most beloved and widely-known of all the heavenly host -- many happy wishes, especially to the many, many, many sons and daughters of the Portiuncula who make up the worldwide Franciscan family.

For those few who might not know, today's marked in many places by the "Blessing of Animals," and the people come out of the woodwork toting their dogs, cats, birds, fish, snakes, you name it. Where it happens, it's one of the calendar's most-popular events, so feel free to send photos of today's blessings my way; it'll be fun to post some (please include parish name and location).

And, especially today, remember well the words which began it all: "Rebuild My Church." None of us are immune from that mission, regardless of the work we do and the places and situations in which we do it. On this feast, may we all be renewed in the intent to do it well, and forgiven for those inevitable moments when we slip up.

"Preach the Gospel; if necessary, use words," Francis told his first friars. Too many words have been used here already, so take a chance today to enjoy creation, whilst keeping in mind that Francis' work, great part of our inheritance that it is, remains the calling of our time.

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