ST FRANCIS PREACHING TO THE BIRDS

Posted: 07.10.20 in Articles category

In October many churches remember Francis of Assisi and celebrate the anniversary of his death on 4 October as a 'feast day' with some holding special services for blessing pet animals. Francis is probably the Christian most famous for his affinity to wildlife. Shortly after his death in 1226, some of his companions collected various stories about the saint's closeness to nature and ability to communicate with animals and birds. These stories were later published in the book, 'The Little Flowers of St Francis', which was being widely circulated by the early 14th century.

One such story was about an occasion when Francis gave an impromptu sermon to a large flock of birds. Francis and his companions were walking through the Spoleto Valley in central Italy when he spotted many birds, made up of different kinds including doves and crows, gathered in some trees beside a field. He left the road and went across to the trees where the birds seemed to be waiting for him. Francis greeted them and expected them to fly away, but to his amazement the birds didn't move.

Francis began to preach a short sermon, apparently echoing the words of Jesus recorded in the Gospel of Matthew chapter 6 verse 26. The saint exhorted these birds to praise God for providing for their needs. According to Thomas of Celano, Francis said to them: "My brother and sister birds, you should praise your Creator and always love him. He gave you feathers for clothes, wings to fly and all other things you need. It is God who made you noble among all creatures, making your home in thin, pure air. Without sowing or reaping, you receive God's guidance and protection."

At this moment the birds began to spread their wings, open their beaks, stretch their necks and gaze at Francis, rejoicing and praising God in their own ways. The saint then walked right through middle of the flock, turned around and came back, touching the birds with his cloak. Then he gave them his blessing and made the sign of the cross. In response the birds arose and flew off in all directions, leaving Francis rejoicing and giving thanks to God.