Our Precious Sister Water

As far back as the early thirteenth century, St. Francis recognised that water is a precious resource, and referred to it using the familial term 'sister'. In this way, Francis illustrates both a sense of intimate relationship with water and a deep respect for it. And why wouldn't he? Isn't water essential in sustaining human life, and the lives of all living beings! Following is a stanza from his praise of God our Creator:

Praised be You, my Lord,
through Sister Water
who is so useful,
humble,
precious,
and pure.

- From The Canticle of the Creatures by St. Francis of Assisi

Prayer for Sister Water

We praise and thank You, Lord,
for the gift of living water.
Guide us
to use it wisely,
learn from its humility,
consume it sparingly,
and protect its purity,
so that with St. Francis,
we may truly

enjoy water

Amen.

- by Cathal Duddy