O God, grant us a deeper sense of fellowship with all living things,

Our little brothers and sisters,

To whom You have given this earth as home in common with us.

We recall with regret that in the past we have acted high-handedly and cruelly

In exercising our domain over them.

Thus, the voice of the earth, which should have risen to you in song,

Has turned into a groan of travail.

May we realize….

That all creatures live for themselves and for You; not for us alone…..

That they too love the goodness of life, as we do and

That they may serve you better in their small way than we do in ours.

Amen.

Prayer for a Deeper Sense of Fellowship with All Living Things

Saint Basil the Great, 330-379, January 2

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