St. Francis of Assisi, the patron saint of animals and ecology, is widely remembered for his love of all God’s creatures. One of the most famous stories from his life is his “Sermon to the Birds.” According to tradition, while walking with his companions near Bevagna, Italy, Francis noticed a large flock of birds. Inspired by their presence, he stopped and spoke to them, delivering a gentle sermon filled with gratitude and reverence.

In his sermon, St. Francis praised the birds for their freedom, beauty, and the joy they brought to the world. He reminded them to be thankful to God for their fine feathers, for their independence, for the air which they fly, and for the sustenance they receive naturally. Francis was said to have encouraged the birds to praise God with their sweet songs and to always remember the Creator’s love. The birds listened attentively, neither flying away nor showing fear, as if understanding and absorbing his words.

This episode is more than a charming tale; it reveals Francis’ deep spiritual vision. He saw all creation as a reflection of God’s love and goodness—the animals, plants, water, and even the sun and moon. Francis believed that every creature was his “brother” or “sister” because all were made by the one loving God. His sermon to the birds demonstrates a radical humility: humans are not the center, but part of a vast, interconnected family under God.

Moreover, the story emphasizes the value of simplicity and gratitude. Francis was not concerned with possessions or power but with living in harmony with creation and giving glory to God in everything. His message continues to inspire ecological movements and calls for care of the environment today.

In essence, St. Francis’ sermon to the birds teaches that even the smallest creatures deserve respect and kindness, and that gratitude for God’s gifts leads to true, joyful living. Francis invites us to see the divine spark in all creation and to join in a universal chorus of praise.

St. Francis’ Sermon to the Birds:

“My little sisters the birds, you owe much to God your Creator, and always and in every place you ought to praise Him because He has given you liberty to fly about in every place, and has given you also double and triple rainment. You are neither sowers nor reapers, and God feeds you, and gives you the rivers and fountains for your drink, the mountains and valleys for your refuge, and the tall trees for your nests. And, though you neither know how to spin nor sew, God clothes you and your children. Wherefore your Creator loves you greatly, since He has given you so many benefits: and therefore, beware, my little sisters, of the sin of ingratitude, and study always to give praise to God.”

It is said that when he finished speaking, the birds began to sing, and then, in a great flight, spread joyfully across the sky, as if to thank the saint and God for his loving words.

---

This sermon beautifully reflects St. Francis’ humility, gentle spirit, and universal sense of kinship with all creation.