The Felician Sisters strive to revere and honor all people and to seek the wisdom of our Indigenous brothers and sisters as we delight in the interconnectedness of all of God’s creation.
“We are all connected.”
Reflection
November is Native American Heritage Month, a time to recognize the contributions of Indigenous practices to humanity and to our Mother Earth.
Approximately 28 percent of the Earth’s land area is home to Indigenous peoples and communities. At the heart of many Indigenous traditions is the concept of interconnectedness. Rather than viewing humans as separate from or superior to nature, Indigenous practices treat humanity as an equal, deeply integrated part of a living web where everything—people, animals, plants, land, air and water—possesses spirit and agency.
This understanding echoes the message of Pope Francis’ encyclical Laudato Si’: “everything is connected.” It also brings to mind the “Circle of Life” from “The Lion King”—a reminder, in a very different form, that each of us has a place and a responsibility within the larger community of creation.
As we celebrate Native American Heritage Month, may we listen with humility, learn with gratitude and deepen our commitment to caring for God’s creation.
Practical Applications for This Month
- Read “Braiding Sweetgrass: Indigenous Wisdom, Scientific Knowledge and the Teachings of Plants” by botanist and Citizen Potawatomi Nation member Robin Wall Kimmerer. Reflect on what the book teaches about our relationship with the natural world.
- Watch The “Lion King” and reflect on its message of the interconnectedness of life and the “Circle of Life.”
- Reflect on St. Francis of Assisi’s “Canticle of the Creatures” and his joyful recognition of all creation as our brothers and sisters.
- Watch Indigenous Knowledge for a Sustainable Future: Bridging Tradition and Innovation, a video produced by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO).
- Review the Felician Sisters’ Laudato Si’ Action Plan and commit to one practice this month that will respect God’s creation.
Prayer Intention
Let us pray that our actions will honor the dignity of every person, respect all of God’s creation and foster a deeper awareness of the interconnectedness of all life on Earth.
