St Francis of Assisi - Canticle of Creatures (Umbrian + English)

The Canticle of the Creatures, written by St. Francis of Assisi, is also known as the the Canticle of the Sun. This hymn was written during the transition period in the development of the Italian language from Latin, and is the earliest known vernacular literature written in the Umbrian dialect of Italian. Well known Catholic author G.K. Chesterton said that this hymn “is a supremely characteristic work and much of Saint Francis could be reconstructed from that work alone“. There are three sections to the Canticle: 1. A praise to God for His creations such as “Brother Sun“, “Sister Moon“, “Brother Wind“, “Sister Water“ This section of the Canticle was written at the end of St. Francis’s life (1224) as he was recovering from an illness with St. Claire and the Poor Sisters in San Damiano. At this point in his life, St. Francis was almost completely blind, and yet through his suffering, he composed this song of praise of God for all the wonders of creation. 2. A praise for those who forgive for the love of God and who endure trials in peace The second part of the Canticle was composed when Francis reconciled the bishop and the podestá (Chief Magistrate) of Assisi. He sent his friars to sing the first part of the canticle in front of them which led to their reconciliation. 3. A praise for “Sister Bodily Death“, and to those “whom death will find in Your most holy will“ According to tradition, the first time the Canticle was sung in its entirety was by Francis and Brothers Angelo and Leo, two of his original companions, on Francis’ deathbed. The final verse praising “Sister Death“ was said to have been added only a few minutes before Francis’ death. (Catholic Diocese of Dallas) ----- English Lyrics ----- Most high, all powerful, all good Lord! All praise is Yours, all glory, all honor, and all blessing. To You, alone, Most High, do they belong. No man is worthy to pronounce Your name. Be praised, my Lord, through all Your creatures, especially through Sir Brother Sun, who brings the day; and You give light through him. And he is beautiful and radiant in all his splendor! Of You, Most High, he bears the likeness. Be praised, my Lord, through Sister Moon and the stars; through Brothers Wind and Air, and clouds and storms, and all the weather, through which You give us sustenance. Through Sister Water; she is humble and pure. Through Brother Fire, he is beautiful and strong. Through our sister Mother Earth, through whom you feed us and rule us, and provides various fruits, flowers and herbs. Through those who forgive for love of You; through those who endure sickness and trial. Happy those who endure in peace, for by You, Most High, they will be crowned. Through our sister Bodily Death, from whose embrace no living person can escape. Woe to those who die in sin! Happy those who find Your most holy will. Praise and bless my Lord, and give thanks, and serve Him with great humility. Praise and bless my Lord, and give thanks, and serve Him with great humility! ----- Copyright ---- This work is not mine and all rights to the owners of the piece. No infringement intended.