Prair
Observed internationally from September 1 (World Day of Prayer for the Care of Creation) through October 4 (Feast of St. Francis of Assisi), the Season of Creation is an opportunity to honor the natural world as God's Creation in our choices and actions, in accordance with Benedictine values and Pope Francis's encyclical, Laudato Si’.
The international theme for 2026 is “Living Water” (Ezekiel 47:9, 12), offering a vision of hope and ecological healing. This year’s observance holds special significance as it also marks the 800th anniversary of the death of St. Francis of Assisi.
The monastery has curated a diverse list of public events designed to engage the community through spiritual reflection, education, and direct environmental stewardship. These events include a multi-part Zoom book discussion series on Gerald May’s Wisdom of Wilderness, a "Pray + Work" retreat, educational presentations, a shoreline cleanup, a pilgrimage walk, a multi-day backcountry camping retreat, a panel discussion on "The Mystery of Creation," and a Blessing of the Forest. The season will culminate on October 4 with a Blessing of the Animals (dogs only) in honor of the Feast of St. Francis.
For more information about the Season of Creation 2026, details on the specific events, or to register for an event, please visit: https://stgertrudes.org/season-of-creation/
ABOUT THE MONASTERY OF ST. GERTRUDE The Center for Benedictine Life at the Monastery of St. Gertrude is an inclusive community of sisters, oblates, and lay partners dedicated to sharing Benedictine spirituality with the world. Guided by the vision that "Prayer awakens. Justice impels. Compassion acts," the community offers healing hospitality to all through ministries like the Spirit Center, a historical museum, and the Inn at St. Gertrude. The community practices sacred stewardship through intentional care of the land, honoring creation as a vital expression of their faith. The Care of Creation Ministry is dedicated to sponsoring programs that allow individuals to experience God's presence in the natural world.