The Graze V.127: Every Fragment of Creation

Dear Friends:

Santiago, the llama, (seen above) was an important part of our family. He helped raise my children. He was a peaceful presence in the field - caring for the lambs and interacting with the dog. His instinct was to be a herder and caretaker. He arrived as a rescue llama at our little farm in Central Vermont toward the end of his life.

Santiago taught us the wisdom of the early Celtic people who experienced an outright mystical connection with nature. This sense of spiritual kinship was reflected in a profound respect for the earth and the natural rhythms of body and soul. The celtic people understood themselves as kin - spiritually, emotionally and intellectually connected. This is the essence of the Feast Day of St. Francis. We bless animals to remind ourselves of our kinship with the natural world - the joy and comfort we offer to one another. But it is important to remember that God created every living thing (not just the agreeable, helpful and fuzzy ones!) St. Francis understood that every creature is beloved of God - even the pesky ones and even the creatures too small to see. We are kin with every fragment of creation.

As we enter this new month, we honor and celebrate the changing of the seasons, the harvest of food to sustain us in the coming brittle months of winter and Saint Francis who opens our eyes to the wonder and holiness of every fragment of Creation.

Join us at Mission Farm in the Orchard for our Gathering this Sunday, October 2 at 9:30am to celebrate the Feast of Saint Francis and Blessing of the Animals - both on site and virtually (immediately following). Don’t forget your pets (or photos of your pets!) for the blessing.

Also, this Sunday (October 2) at 4pm, Wrensong will join us for Choral Evensong in the Chapel at Mission Farm. All are invited to take part in this unique and beautiful Anglican tradition. See more information below.

May you, your furry loved ones, and all of Creation be well….

Lisa