The Season of Creation runs from 1st September to October 4th, the feast day of St Francis of Assisi. The theme for this year is ‘let justice and peace flow’. In planning for this time in our churches you might like to take inspiration from St Francis himself. Recently the National Gallery in London held an exhibition of artwork exploring the life of St Francis.
St Francis is well known for his love of nature and the entrance was flanked by an impressive large ‘green’ living wall. Once inside, there was a large painting of St Francis, in the Italian countryside, to contemplate, before going on to look at a collection of smaller artworks. The ones that stood out for me were – a painting by Zurbaran of St Francis in his monk’s habit, in prayer; a slightly comical painting, by Spencer, of St Francis in a farmyard surrounded by ducks and chickens; and a woodcut by Buttner showing Francis outdoors preaching to a flock of birds.
In all, the exhibition illustrated St Francis’ commitment to a life of poverty, to promoting social justice and peace, and also to the care for the environment. Indeed Pope Francis is quoted as saying ‘the message of St Francis is remarkably timely in our own day’. So perhaps a useful starter for a service or event during creation time.
For more information about the Season see Season of Creation
If you are holding any special services or events during this Season do let the Green Team know (email me on jillnug@hotmail.com or any other member of the Team).
Jill Nugent [United Reformed Church (URC) Thames North Synod Green Apostle]
Resources and materials produced by the churches and other groups are also available at the Churches Together in Britain & Ireland website https://ctbi.org.uk/season-of-creation-2023/
