St. Francis of Assisi’s “Praises of God”: A Glimpse into Franciscan Spirituality

St. Francis of Assisi, one of the most beloved saints in Christian history, left us many spiritual treasures. Among these is a profound prayer known as the “Praises of God” or “Laudes Dei Altissimi” in Latin. This prayer offers a window into St. Francis’s deep faith and his unique perspective on the divine.

The “Praises of God” is a series of short, powerful statements, each beginning with “You are…” followed by an attribute or title of God. This repetitive structure creates a rhythmic, almost meditative quality that invites the reader or supplicant into a state of contemplation.

For example, the prayer begins:

“You are holy, Lord, the only God, You do wonders. You are strong, You are great, You are the most high, You are the almighty King…” [Read More]

This opening sets the tone for the entire prayer, emphasizing God’s power, uniqueness, and supremacy. As the prayer continues, it touches on various aspects of God’s nature, from His role as creator to His qualities of love, wisdom, and justice.

What makes this prayer particularly striking is its simplicity and directness. St. Francis doesn’t use complex theological language or elaborate metaphors. Instead, he speaks to God in a personal, intimate manner, as one would address a close friend or beloved parent. This approach aligns perfectly with Francis’s overall spirituality, which emphasized a direct, unmediated relationship with the divine.

The “Praises of God” also reflects St. Francis’s holistic view of creation. By listing such a wide array of divine attributes, he presents a God who is intimately involved in all aspects of existence. This ties into Francis’s well-known love for nature and his view of all creation as a reflection of God’s glory.

For modern Catholics, this prayer offers a valuable tool for meditation and personal devotion. Its simple structure makes it easy to memorize and recite, while its depth of meaning provides ample material for reflection.

Whether used in personal prayer, group worship, or as a focus for spiritual journaling, the “Praises of God” can help deepen our understanding of and relationship with the divine.

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