Isaac Everett

An adaptation of the poem by St Francis of Assisi, 1224

All praise to you, most high and holy Lord
All creatures, in a chorus sing your blessings evermore
You send your spirit for us, everything we share is yours
From first to last and always you’ll be honored and adored
All praise to you, beloved Lord

You gave us Brother Sun so radiant bright
To comfort us by day and grant us vision with his light
You gave us Sister Moon to see us through the lonely night
And stars to shine upon us here on earth from Heaven’s height
May we be worthy in your sight

And show your wisdom we implore you
To all your children here before you
To thrive in your creation and forgive what we endure
Our trials and tribulations in your holy name, Oh Lord

We praise you Lord for Brother Fire
Who keeps with us our watch by night with merry dance and gentle roar
(The sacred blaze of Brother Fire)
We praise you Lord, for sister Water
Who courses through all living things, who springs eternal, keeps us pure
(The sacred grace of Sister Water)
We praise you Lord, for brother Wind
Who brings clear skies and stormy weather, seasons in their cosmic dance
(The sacred change of Brother Wind)
We praise you Lord, for Mother Earth
Who loves and holds us, bears her bounty, colored flowers, fruits and plants
(The sacred ways of Mother Earth)

And show your wisdom we implore you
To all your children here before you
To thrive in your creation and forgive what we endure
Our trials and tribulations in your holy name, Oh Lord

We praise you Lord, for Sister Death
Who comes for everyone, the best and worst, the cursed and blessed
For sinners reaping harvests of their cruel inequities
And saints who gave the full extent of their ability
We pray with great humility