This week we end the Season of Creation that Christians across cultures and countries celebrated together.
Alamy Statue of Saint Francis of Assisi Petting a Dog in Monterosso Al Mar, Liguria, Italy. Photo: Ryan Klaus
Every year, the season ends on the Sunday following St Francis Day. St Francis’ life and ministry was centred on his understanding of the interconnectedness of all life. He is often portrayed as having a special relationship with animals, even seeming to be able to talk with them. He also sought to live so as to help people see the benefit of looking for the best in everyone. He worked to create an environment where every living creature could thrive, he helped people and creatures understand each other’s needs.
Julie Guest
In the famous story of St Francis and the wolf, St Francis was called in by the people of Grubbio village to deal to the wolf who was eating their sheep. St Francis met with the wolf, discovering that he was old and injured, so he couldn’t run fast enough to catch his usual prey to feed himself. He was reduced to stealing the sheep from the villagers. St Francis made a deal between both parties. If the villagers would feed the wolf, the wolf would leave the villagers’ sheep alone. As they kept their promises, each side discovered other benefits from their relationship.
The wolf, who had been rejected by his pack, found companionship, while the wolf’s presence protected the village from other marauding animals.
On the outskirts of Te Awamutu we have Maungatautari, or Sanctuary Mountain. As we read in our papers, the wonderful achievements of Maungatautari are under serious threat as funding is removed.
As the name implies, this place has created a sanctuary for all native wildlife. The website says “Surrounded by one of the world’s longest pest-proof fences, we are New Zealand’s largest fenced eco-sanctuary. Our ancient forest is home to many of New Zealand’s unique and endangered wildlife.”
Today we cannot quite emulate St Francis, under whose care rats, mice, stoats, possums and all non-indigenous species would somehow be persuaded to pose no threat, but to feast only on seeds. However, we can, through the dedicated work of a few, follow his principles, as we create an area where our native life, whether leafed or feathered, two legged or six, can be protected and allowed to replenish.
Christians are tasked by our Creator with care and stewardship of all creation. Here is an opportunity to show that we take the task seriously. We all benefit from having Maungatautari so nearby.
Heard of “forest bathing?” It’s current-speak for spending time in the bush; breathing in the scent of damp forest floor, listening to the bird call, appreciating the movement of branches, shimmering leaves and birds in flight. Our entire well-being is enhanced by the experience. With the conflict and ugliness in the world at present, how fortunate we are to have a source of wellbeing so nearby.
But it won’t continue without our help. Sanctuary mountain is asking for donations to allow their work to continue. In the spirit of St Francis, can you find a way to contribute to the wellbeing of all creatures together?
Kiwi thrive now on Sanctuary Mountain
