St. Francis of Assisi
Most High, all-powerful, good Lord,
Yours are the praise, the glory, the honour and every blessing.
To you alone, Most High, they belong;
and no man is worthy to pronounce your name.
We praise my Lord, with all your creatures,
especially Sir Brother Sun,
who is day and by him You shed light upon us.
He is beautiful and radiant with great splendor,
of you, Most High, he bears the likeness.
Be praised, my Lord, through Sister Moon and the Stars,
in the heavens you formed them clear and precious and beautiful.
Be praised, my Lord, through Brother Wind,
and through Air and Cloud and fair and all Weather,
by which You nourish all that you have made.
Be praised, my Lord, through Sister Water,
who is very useful and humble and precious and pure.
Be praised, my Lord, through Brother Fire,
by whom you light up the night;
he is beautiful and merry and vigorous and strong.
Be praised, my Lord, through our Sister Mother Earth,
who sustains and guides us,
and produces diverse fruits with coloured flowers and herbs.
Be praised, my Lord, through those who pardon for love of you,
and endure sickness and trials.
Blessed are they who shall endure them in peace,
for by you Most High, they shall be crowned.
Be praised, my Lord, through our Sister Bodily Death,
from whom no man living can escape.
Woe to those who die in mortal sin.
Blessed are those whom she will find in your most holy will,
for the second death will do them no harm.
Praise and bless my Lord
and give him thanks, and serve him with great humility.
Translated by Eric Doyle OFM
