By Isaac Reyes, ofs.
The third session of the 2025 Franciscan Vision Global Summit (FVGS) online series was gracefully opened by Master of Ceremonies Br. Arokiam John, OFM, who greeted the participants warmly with the words, “May the Lord give you peace, dear Brothers and Sisters!” He announced that the talks would be available in six languages, thanks to the support of dedicated interpreters.
To inaugurate the session, the invocation of the Holy Spirit was led by the junior Sisters of the Franciscan Clarist Congregation (FCC) from the Amala Province in Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, India.
Br. Arokiam then introduced Sr. Mary Irene of the Order of Poor Clares of Perpetual Adoration (PCPA), who was invited to moderate the session. Sr. Mary Irene, PCPA, in turn, introduced the speaker, Rev. Prof. Dr. Fr. Joseph Dolphy Pais, OFM Cap., who delivered a rich and inspiring presentation on the theme: “The Canticle of the Creatures and the Sermons to the Birds in Early Franciscan Sources and their Lessons to Live in Harmony with Creation.”
Highlights from Fr. Joseph Dolphy’s Talk
1. Harmony with Creation
Fr. Dolphy Pais emphasized St. Francis of Assisi’s profound spiritual bond with nature, particularly through his Canticle of the Creatures and his sermons to birds. He underlined the shared kinship among all creatures, humanity, and the divine.
2. Ecological Spirituality
Drawing from St. Francis’ life and teachings, the speaker highlighted a spirituality deeply rooted in ecology—one that promotes stewardship, interconnectedness, and care for the Earth. He noted how this legacy influenced contemporary movements, including Pope Francis’ Laudato Si’.
3. Symbolism in Relationships
Through stories of St. Francis’ interaction with animals, especially birds, Fr. Dolphy Pais illustrated how Francis perceived God’s presence in all living beings. These encounters reflect messages of forgiveness, unity, and respect for creation.
4. Challenges for Birds and Conservation Efforts
Fr. Dolphy Pais discussed the many dangers birds face today—such as electromagnetic radiation and environmental degradation—and stressed the importance of collective responsibility and advocacy to safeguard their habitats.
5. The Triple Connection Framework
A central theme of the talk was the “Triple Connection”:
With God: Experiencing the divine through the natural world.
With People: Healing and restoring human relationships.
With Creation: Celebrating and protecting nature.
6. Call to Action
The talk concluded with an urgent appeal from Fr. Dolphy Pais for ecological awareness and responsible living. He encouraged practical steps such as reducing exposure to harmful technology, supporting bird conservation, and promoting environmental education.
The presentation offered a harmonious blend of spirituality, ecological insight, and practical guidance—relevant and urgent for our times.
Following the presentation, Sr. Mary Irene led a fruitful “Question and Answer” session, engaging participants in deeper reflection.
Br. Arokiam John closed the session with words of gratitude to both Sr. Mary Irene and Rev. Dr. Fr. Joseph Dolphy Pais. He then invited everyone to attend the next FVGS online event, scheduled for Saturday, April 26, 2025, from 17:30–18:45 IST (14:00–15:15 CET).
The third session of FVGS 2025 and the 27th session overall concluded on a high note with a moving rendition of the Canticle of the Creatures in Vietnamese. This was performed by OFM friars from Vietnam who are currently pursuing studies at various universities and academic institutions in Rome and elsewhere. Br. Arokiam thanked the friars for their beautiful contribution and closed the session with heartfelt appreciation.
