Beginning in May, I am offering a class on writing an icon of the beloved St. Francis of Assisi featuring a wolf and dove, based on the beautiful icon by Liesbeth Smulders. He remains relevant today because has so much to teach us about following God with joy, lightheartedness, humility, and with a heart for our neighbors – including our siblings in the natural world.

There is a story about St. Francis and the wolf of Gubbio in which he helps restore peace between the wolf and the townspeople. Francis listens to the needs of the village and the wolf and serves as a mediator in helping them learn to listen to and care for each other. It’s a beautiful image of our connection with nature. It’s also a great metaphor for making peace with and tending to (or taming!) the ravenous wolves within ourselves – whatever those might be. 

There is also a story about St. Francis preaching to the birds. It’s a wonderful reflection on the connection we share with creation and how we all use our unique gifts and voices to praise God. It’s also a reminder that the good news is for all of creation in all its diversity.

What might St. Francis have to teach you about God, the environment, and yourself in this season? Is there an invitation to try something new or to explore a slow and creative prayer practice?

If you are interested in learning to pray in paint, check out the flyer below and please contact me with questions or to sign up via email by April 14. To see some of the previous icons I’ve written and classes have worked on, and to hear about students’ experiences, please view the gallery.