St Francis' Path in the Wildschönau - a sign of peace

The song of praise to the Creator of the Universe by St Francis of Assisi named the Canticle of Brother Sun is known all over the world. A path of Contemplation has been erected in the Wildschönau inspired by St Francis' example.

 

The song of praise to the Creator of the Universe by St Francis of Assisi named the Canticle of Brother Sun is known all over the world. Sculptor Hubert Flörl has succeeded in conveying St Francis’ message of peace through his impressively clear shapes. The nine figures embedded in the wonderful alpine scenery of the Wildschönau inspire a new relationship to creation. In these times of ever increasing social problems, the Path of Contemplation, this series of beautiful statues, serves to deepen our compassion for our fellow man and our awareness of the magnificence and greatness of Creation. We realise how grateful we should be for the beautiful and the good found in the world.

To the Universe Most High, all-powerful, all-good Lord,
All praise is Yours, all glory, all honour and all blessings.
To you alone, Most High, do they belong,
And no mortal lips are worthy to pronounce Your Name.

To the Sun  Praised be You my Lord with all Your creatures,
Especially Sir Brother Sun,
Who is the day through whom You give us light.
And he is beautiful and radiant with great splendour,
Of You Most High, he bears the likeness.

To the Moon and the Stars
 Praised be You, my Lord, through Sister Moon and the stars,
In the heavens you have made them bright, precious and fair.

To the Wind and the Air
Praised be You, my Lord through Brothers Wind and Air,
And fair and stormy, all weather's moods,
By which You cherish all that You have made.

To Water[nbsp] Praised be You, my Lord through Sister Water,
So useful, humble, precious and pure.

To Fire  Praised be You, my Lord through Brother Fire,
Through whom You light the night
And he is beautiful and playful and robust and strong.

To the World with it's seeds and fruits
Praised be You, my Lord through our Sister,
Mother Earth
Who sustains and governs us,
Producing varied fruits with coloured flowers and herbs.

To Love  Praise be You my Lord through those who grant pardon
For love of You and bear sickness and trail.
Blessed are those who endure in peace,
By You Most High, they will be crowned.

To Death  Praised be You, my Lord through Sister Death,
From whom no one living can escape.
Woe to those who die in mortal sin!
Blessed are they She finds doing Your Will.
No second death can do them harm.

Praise and bless my Lord and give Him thanks,
And serve Him with great humility.