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All over the world today there are people – hundreds of thousands of women and men - who take the 13th Century St Francis as their model of how to be a Christian. Modern Franciscans can be found in every walk of life, seeking to live simply and humbly, to love the God who is present in our own depths and in all of creation. Theirs is a common vision: identification with the poor and the marginalised; reverence for the natural world; hospitality to all; and commitment to justice, healing and peace.

This Wednesday is the Feast of St Francis, and all this week the Daily Service comes from the National Gallery in London, taking the opportunity to learn from his example and to pray with him. It is led by Denis Nowlan with the Director of the Gallery, Gabriele Finaldi.

Today’s service reflects on St Francis and the natural world.

Producer: Andrew Earis

Recorded in July 2023 during The National Gallery St Francis of Assisi exhibition

Paintings
Stanley Spencer, St Francis and the Birds, 1935 (Tate, London)
Sassetta - San Sepolcro Altarpiece, The Wolf of Gubbio 1437-44 (The National Gallery, London)

Music
The Birds - II. The Dove - Respighi
London Symphony Orchestra, Antal Dorati
CD: Ottorino Respighi - The Birds and Brazilian Impressions (Soundmark Records)

All creatures of our God and King
Kantos Chamber Choir
Recorded on location in Assisi, Italy

Canticle of the Creatures
sung by Friar Alessandro
Recorded on location in Assisi, Italy

Peace - Paul Mealor
Tenebrae
CD: I saw eternity - Paul Mealor (Decca)

The Lord bless you and keep you - John Rutter
Kantos Chamber Choir
Recorded on location in Rome, Italy

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