Customer Reviews

Care for Creation: A Franciscan Spirituality of the Earth

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Care for Creation addresses "the ecological devastation of our time" in terms of environmental science, Franciscan spirituality, and reflective action. Though environmental problems seem overwhelming, the authors write, personal and cultural transformation are possible through knowledge, prayer, and faith formation. The knowledge component is presented by Warner, a lecturer and researcher in environmental studies. His chapters are filled with definitions, explanations, and examples that help even novices grasp the current situation and implications for the future. The prayer and spirituality component is provided by Delio, a professor of spirituality studies and author of several books on Franciscan spirituality. Her chapters in Care for Creation deal with ecological topics in view of Franciscan theology, drawing on the life of Francis, the writings of Clare, and the theology of Bonaventure. Reflective action chapters are the work of Wood, an art therapist, spiritual director, and retreat leader. She offers guided meditations, prayers, and practical steps for individuals, small groups, and organizations. Two appendixes contain guidelines for engaging in reflective action and preparing for guided prayer experiences. Another gives the formula for calculating individual carbon emissions. Chapter notes, a resource list, and an index are included.

This is a solid, comprehensive work of immense value to individuals, faith-sharing groups, and institutions wishing to better understand today's ecological issues and work toward a "right relationship" with Creation.

This book is an excellent introduction to the field of ecologocial theology. And timely, in view of our seemingly unstoppable drive to destroy this planet we have been so blessed to share with all creation. A book to be read and prayed

An excellent example of our connectedness on this finite planet and ways we can learn to appreciate and care for what we have. There are too many of us, including myself until recently, that take our planet for granted. "It's" now objecting to our mistreatment and we must awaken!

I am using this book in a book discussion and we are all finding it to be very engaging in terms of the writing styles and approaches of the three authors. The scientific input is very straightforward and pertinent to the focus of the respective sections. The Franciscan input is accurate and insightful, but tends to be a bit "circular" in style. The final component of each section is the practical, prayerful and meditative section which is very challenging to one's personal and spiritual growth for the good of Creation. This book is very usable for parishes and study groups, for classrooms (post-secondary), and for personal study and reflection.

A blend of three streams: ecological / theological and practical - all from a Franciscan perspective. Well worth the read - and more importantly, reflecting on the points in the book and taking action.

Francis is ever 'green' in his understanding of the interelationships of all of creation. As a Franciscan Sister of Christian Charity, I salute the authors' passionate efforts to inspire deep communal conversion grounded in solid information about ecology, theology and action.