Festival of St. Francis of Assisi At-Home Service for Oct 4

Today we are observing the commemoration of St. Francis.  If someone only knew one thing about St. Francis it would probably be his association with nature. That has led some congregations to bless animals on this day.  St. Francis sought a harmonious relationship with all people and all things no matter how despised, lowly, or insignificant they may have been in the eyes of others.

Follow along with the the At-home printed version of the Festival of St. Francis of Assisi Sunday service.

Click here on the image below to view the at-home version of the service.

Pastor Rike’s Sermon

St. Francis and those with him joyfully adopted things that most other people found depressing deprivations. Since St. Francis had returned to the foundation of Christ Jesus and built upon it rather than something else he could be happy with such a life. 

He had rediscovered God’s love song for all creation which is in Christ Jesus. St. Francis sought to rebuild the ruins of the church by singing that ancient song in a new key. He found camaraderie with all people and things because fellowship with all people and things was repaired through the cross of Christ.  Caring for lepers and the ill was a joy because doing so brought the Franciscans into deeper communion with God. Engaging in dangerous missions, such as going to preach Christ Jesus to the Sultan of Egypt, was part of singing this love song.  

Click here to read Pastor Rike’s entire sermon.

Video Options

Follow along with the service on video led by Pastor David Rike with music performed by Randy Broker

Click on the image below to view the video.

Festival of St. Francis of Assisi Sunday Service for October 4 includes: Hymn: For the Beauty of the Earth performed by the Randy Broker, First Reading 1 Corinthians 3:11-21, Holy Gospel Mark 10:35-45, Sermon by Pastor David Rike, Hymn: All Creatures, Worship God Most High! performed by Randy Broker, Prayers and Lord’s Prayer, Blessing