The Season of Creation

On Thursday 1st September 2022 the Church will celebrate the World Day of Prayer for the Care of Creation, with the theme 'Listen to the Voice of Creation'.

This day marks the beginning of a period of prayer and action in relation to care for our mutual home, up to and including 4th October: the Feast of St Francis of Assisi, who is the Patron Saint of Ecology.
During this time we are encouraged to consider our relationship with God, each other, and the Earth, with particular concern for the stewardship of creation and the cry of the poor, whose ability to work sustainably with the land is often affected by the adverse effects of climate change,
Our well-being is inextricably interwoven with that of the Earth and the fine balance of our ecosystems. We have seen our planet troubled in recent times with high temperatures, wildfires, floods and adverse weather conditions, leading to ecological, financial and social instability for those affected. In a similar vein, the significant loss or damage to a range of habitats has negatively affected a variety of species. 
In this Season, we are called by the Holy Spirit, signified by the holy fire of the Burning Bush, to listen to the living voice of creation, and to the wisdom of those who can teach us to live sustainably and within the limits of our earthly resources.

PRAYER FOR THE SEASON OF CREATION

Mountain Lake by Marcin Mazur

Father, Lord of all creation,
we praise you with all your creatures
and the whole universe that comes forth from the work of Your hands.
We acknowledge the privilege and responsibility
that You give us as stewards of Your creation.
In our ignorance we have done damage to our common home
and our brothers and sisters are suffering.
Through faithfully following your Son
guide and direct us to prepare for a better future.
Teach us to contemplate You in the beauty of the universe,
for all things speak of You.
Give us the grace to recognise, respect and protect all You have created,
using wisely all that you have entrusted to us.
Holy Spirit, who first hovered over the dawn of creation and drew order out of the chaos
help us to build your kingdom of justice, love, peace and beauty where the poor of the earth are crying out.
You, who live and reign, world without end, Amen.

FIND OUT MORE

Season of Creation Guide 2022
Click on the image above

Opening Event: 1st September 2022


Mountain Lake Image: Marcin Mazur