St. Francis of Assisi Celebration Calls for Care for Creation, Peace and Fraternity
A special celebration in honour of St. Francis of Assisi, the patron of ecology, was held on 5 October 2026 at St. Joseph Church, Kalka, with the theme “Creation, Peace and Fraternity.” The celebration was an opportunity to reflect on St. Francis’ profound love for creation, his simple life, concern for the poor, and commitment to peace and fraternity.
The Holy Eucharist was celebrated by Rev. Fr. Antony Raj, Parish Priest in the open air, providing a meaningful setting to experience and appreciate the beauty of God’s creation. In his homily, the celebrant reflected on the biblical understanding of God as the Creator of the entire universe and reminded the faithful of their responsibility to care for creation.
He encouraged everyone to respect nature, protect the environment and live responsibly in harmony with all of God’s creation. Drawing inspiration from the life of St. Francis, the faithful were reminded that caring for the earth is an expression of gratitude to the Creator and a responsibility towards future generations.
The celebrant also highlighted the importance of peace and fraternity, urging everyone to love one another, forgive, reach out to those in need and live as brothers and sisters. He emphasized that genuine peace begins with love, kindness, understanding and reconciliation within families and communities. He encouraged the faithful to work together to make the world “a beautiful vineyard of the Lord.”
The celebration served as a meaningful reminder of the simplicity, humility and compassion of St. Francis of Assisi and his deep reverence for God’s creation. It concluded with a renewed commitment to care for creation, promote peace, strengthen fraternity and build a more harmonious society.
The celebration was a beautiful occasion of prayer and reflection, inspiring all present to embrace the values of love, peace, fraternity and responsible stewardship of God’s creation.
Fr. Antony Raj
Secretary, Commission for Ecology
