Care for Creation, Care for Saint Francis University
Welcoming a Franciscan Voice Back to Campus
On Wednesday, April 8, Saint Francis University welcomed back Fr. Jonathan St. Andre, T.O.R., Vice President for Franciscan Life at Franciscan University of Steubenville, for a thoughtful presentation exploring Canticle of the Creatures and its enduring relevance to the University’s mission.
The Historical Roots of the Canticle
Fr. Jonathan began by situating the Canticle within its historical context. Written in the early thirteenth century, near the end of Saint Francis of Assisi’s life, the text offers one of the clearest expressions of his spiritual worldview. At a time marked by deep social, political, and religious divisions, Francis articulated a vision of unity grounded in the recognition of God’s presence in all of creation.
A Vision of Unity Through Creation
Central to this vision is the Canticle’s relational language, in which elements of the natural world — sun, moon, stars, wind, water, and earth — are named “brother” and “sister.” This familial framing reflects the profound connection Francis saw between God, humanity, and the created world, inviting a perspective rooted in respect, kinship, and care. Fr. Jonathan then connected this worldview to Saint Francis University’s Franciscan Goals of Higher Education. If creation is understood as a gift that reveals God, then learning itself becomes an act of receiving and responding to that gift. He pointed to the University’s commitment to fostering a humble and generous approach to learning, one that encourages curiosity, gratitude, and a responsibility to use knowledge for the common good.
Drawing directly from the imagery of the Canticle, Fr. Jonathan highlighted how the natural elements described as life-giving sources invite wonder and reflection. This attentiveness, he noted, calls students and educators alike to continual growth and deeper understanding, reinforcing the idea that learning is never complete but always unfolding.
Formation for a Fractured World
The Canticle also underscores the Franciscan commitment to solidarity and reconciliation. In its later verses, Francis praises those who “endure in peace,” a reminder that intellectual formation should extend beyond personal achievement to contribute to healing a fractured world. This theme carried into the discussion that followed, which referenced Laudato Si’, the encyclical by Pope Francis, whose title echoes the Canticle’s opening phrase, “Praise be to you, my Lord.” Fr. Jonathan emphasized the concept of “integral ecology,” which recognizes that relationships with one another, with creation, and with God are deeply interconnected.
From the Canticle to Laudato Si'
The event concluded with practical guidance for daily life. Fr. Jonathan encouraged those in attendance to cultivate habits of attentiveness, slowing down, observing the world more intentionally, and making space for gratitude. These simple yet meaningful practices, he explained, form the foundation for ongoing personal and spiritual growth.
Ultimately, Fr. Jonathan’s presentation served as a powerful reminder that the Canticle of the Creatures is more than a historical text; it is a living vision. One that continues to call the Saint Francis University community to approach learning, relationships, and the world itself with greater attentiveness, humility, and care.
To watch the full video, click here