Stories record that when St. Francis of Assisi planned the layout of his communities, he would designate a special place in the garden to be left untouched so that it could grow wild. This way the members of the community could witness the beauty of God’s creation.
St. Francis is part of a long tradition in our faith, which calls us to be attuned to the need to care for creation—all that is and of the Earth.
Today, parishes can transform their outdoor spaces into “Human Backyards.” Humane Backyards are peaceful havens for all of God’s creatures. They are habitats that shelter and feed native wildlife while bringing natural beauty and spiritual nourishment to the community.
Invite your faith community to consider how it can create a place of welcome for the many members of God’s creation.