Both the Season of Creation and Pope Francis’ encyclical, Laudato Si’ (Praise Be to God) were inspired in part by St. Francis of Assisi, and his gentle way of seeing the grace of God in all living things. His oft-cited prayer, “The Canticle of Creation” was written in three sections: praise of God for the physical elements of our world (sun, moon, stars, wind, water, fire, and earth which sustain us); praise for those who forgive; and praise for sister death. The Canticle was written shortly before his death when he was filled with gratitude for all of God’s creative acts that bring forth and sustain life itself. Also well- known is the St. Francis prayer “Make Me a Channel of Your Peace” which we sing in our liturgies. We rarely hear about the part of St. Francis’ life where during the period of warfare between the Christian and Muslim world, he risked his life to meet with the leader of the Muslim world, Sultan Malik Al Kamil, to try to forge peace.

For 30 years, Lay Spirits has sponsored a spiritual formation program. Through presentations from guest speakers, personal reflection and spiritual conversation, participants seek a closer connection to God and accompany each other on the journey. 

Join us for an lgnatian Spirituality Information Session to learn more about this prayer and what programs are being offered at Xavier in 2017-18.

Now is the time when the music ministry especially seeks new members for the coming year. There are five ways in which you might want to participate: The Choir, The Family Faith Choir, The Sunday 5PM Schola Choir, The Bell Choir, and The Instrumental Group. We are particularly looking for new singers in the 5PM Sunday Schola and the Family Faith Choir.

Are you enjoying summer produce? Ripe tomatoes? Fresh corn and fruit? Who labors in the fields to provide the food that most of us take for granted?