From September 1, the World Day of Prayer for the Care of Creation, to October 4, the Feast of St Francis of Assisi (the Patron Saint of Ecology and Creation), Christian communities around the world come together to observe the Season of Creation.

This special time is recognised by the Universal Catholic Church and celebrated in unity with our ecumenical family. It is a period dedicated to reflecting on our sacred responsibility as stewards of God’s creation and renewing our relationship with the natural world.

The Season of Creation is a time for celebration, conversion, and commitment, marked by a variety of spiritual and practical actions. These include prayers, hands-on environmental projects, and advocacy efforts aimed at preserving the planet for future generations.

The Season of Creation Challenge 2024

In the Caribbean, the Franciscan Institute for Personal and Family Development is leading efforts to raise awareness and foster engagement through its annual Season of Creation Challenge. Now in its seventh year, this creative competition encourages participants to submit projects inspired by this year’s theme, set by the Holy Father: To Hope and Act with Creation.

Over the years, the challenge has become a vibrant expression of creativity, with participants contributing in various ways, from school projects and assemblies to Spoken Word performances and special community events. The 2024 Season of Creation Challenge is currently underway and will culminate on October 4.

Participants will receive certificates of participation, while the winners are honoured at the St Francis Canticle Creation Award Ceremony, which will take place on Saturday, November 2, 2024.

Other Events and Activities

St. Paul’s Youth Group on Creation Walk (2024) to Bamboo Cathedral, Trinidad

In addition to the Challenge, the Franciscan Institute has planned several other events to mark this important season. For more information, follow us on Facebook at Franciscan Institute, Instagram at Franciscan.institute, or reach out via phone at 230-1527.

-Submitted by The Office of the Franciscan Institute

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