The year 2025 marked the 800th anniversary of St. Francis of Assisi’s great hymn to God, the Canticle of the Creatures. It is celebrated for being among the first poems to be composed in the emerging Italian language. It displays Francis’ profound reverence for God the Creator as well as his feeling of affectionate kinship with all living beings and all of the cosmos. 

Around the world, the Capuchin Order observed this eighth centenary with gatherings and conferences. The North American and Pacific Capuchin Conference held two webinars on Sept. 23 on Oct. 1. The first webinar featured Br. James Donegan speaking on the canticle and its contribution to an ecological ethic. The second webinar featured Br. Jack Rathschmidt, who spoke about the spirituality of the canticle. 

As we reflect on the meaning and significance of the Canticle for the Franciscan family, the Church, and the world, we recall that first and foremost, it is a prayer and a song. Francis was a troubadour at heart, and he wanted his brothers to sing the Canticle wherever they went, filling the universe with praises of God.

In that spirit, Br. Erik Lenhart and Br. Anthony Zuba composed and arranged a simplified version of the Canticle, a gloss on the original poem. Joining them were troubadours Br. Benedict Ayodi on drum, Br. Thomas McNamara on guitar, and Brother Jim on piano. 

Click below to watch a video of the song.