The rituals of blessing domestic and farm animals, such as the one in which we will participate in today, are traditionally held on or around the day we remember an Italian medieval monk called Francis of Assisi, who died on October the 3rd almost 800 years ago. Francis’ love of nature was a significant feature of his life and spirituality, so it is fitting to reflect on our relationship with nature on this day, and what we might do to bless it in our lives, beyond the few prayers we will say now. 

Many cultures have their own saints associated with ecology, but St Francis seems to be the one whose fame and example is not only enduring, but widespread. He lived in the era that seems far away from our time, but what he taught is real and inspirational to us now that both the environmental and social justice concerns have become prominent in our society – and to St Francis, both were very important, not just the animals. Long before the science of ecology was established, he had pointed out many truths about the interconnectedness/interdependence of all humans to begin with, as well of humans and nature. 

It may be the desire to experience of such interconnectedness, tangibly, that leads us to acquire animal companions. We get a chance to step outside ourselves and see the world differently when we observe our animal companions interact with it. I also think that the very act of our naming them manifests the genuineness of our relationship with each creature. Whenever we give a name to our new pet, we do exactly what the first human in the biblical story did: he met each creature, and gave it a name as a sign of acknowledging his attempt to grasp something essential about him or her. Naming reflects unconditional connection, acknowledgement of existence, respect, compassion. These are essential characteristics of relationships that are true and two-way, and they mark the presence of mutual understanding.

Understanding motivates us to act with compassion towards our human and animal siblings, and to protect and share the natural resources fairly. Understanding enables the awareness of our shortcomings with regard to the world and each other. Today, let us remember the teachings of St Francis, and in our own ways, strive to become the instruments of God’s peace in the world. I think if we just start by seeking “not so much to be understood, but to understand”, it will be that much easier to overcome hatred with love, hurt with forgiveness, doubts with faith, and despair — with hope. Amen.