The Canticle of the Sun

Composed by St. Francis of Assisi, 1225 C.E.

   
 Most high, almighty, good Lord God, to thee belong praise, glory, honor, and benediction.
    Praised be my Lord for all thy creatures, especially brother sun, who brings us the day and the light; beautiful is he, and radiant with great splendor; of thee, Most High, he is a sign.
    Praised be my Lord for sister moon and the stars, which thou has set in the heavens, clear and precious and fair.
    Praised be my Lord for brother wind, and the air and the clouds, and clear skies and all weathers by which the life of thy creatures is sustained.
    Praised be my Lord for sister water; most useful is she, and humble, and precious and pure.
    Praised be my Lord for brother fire, who illumines the night and gives us warmth; bright and merry is he, and mighty and strong.
    Praised be my Lord for our sister, mother earth, who sustains and teaches us, and brings forth divers fruits and the many-hued flowers and grasses.
    Praised be my Lord for those who forgive in the name of love, and weakness bear, and tribulation; blessed are they who persevere in peace, for thou, most High, shall give them a crown.
    Praised be my Lord for sister bodily death, from whom no living one can flee; woe to those who die in mortal sin; blessed are they who walk in thy most holy will, for the second death will not harm them.
    Praise and bless my Lord, and give him thanks, and serve him with great humility.