Francis saw animals as his brothers and sisters because they were God’s creatures, just like people. He said of animals: “Not to hurt our humble brethren is our first duty to them, but to stop there is not enough. We have a higher mission -- to be of service to them wherever they require it.” So Francis prayed that God would work through him to help animals as well as people.
To my surprise, there is an Icon of the Orthodox Christian Patron Saint of Animals, St. Modestos.
This shouldn't surprise me since Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew beautifully stated: “Everything that lives and breathes is sacred and beautiful in the
eyes of God.” We believe it is our responsibility as human beings to love, honor, and care for God’s earth; that He created and blessed every creature that swims in its oceans, walks or crawls on its soil, or flies in its skies.
I would love to hear from Lebo Citizen readers of other faiths. About two months ago, a resident spoke at a commission meeting and said that he and his wife were very upset that deer will be killed using his tax dollars. I agree. This goes against my religious beliefs too.
