Lord God,
Compassionate Wisdom,
Healing Spirit,

In the beginning when you brought forth life,
you committed the stewardship of
Creation to our first parents.
In your providence we see your love,
and we find the beginnings and the endings
of all journeys within your glory.

We recall with heart-felt gratitude
the lives of the animal companions
who have shared our days.

In life they gave witness to your glory,
In death they are memories of grace and beauty.
May we find in this mystery
of the rhythms of our lives,
grace, wisdom, fortitude,
and the peace that passes
human understanding,
so that we may
see You more clearly,
love You more dearly,
and follow You more nearly.

May all Creation praise,
reverence, and serve your
Holy Name of beauty and justice.

These blessings we ask,
with confidence in your eternal love,
entrusting all our animal companions
to the care and protection of St. Francis,
through your Son Jesus Christ,
Compassionate Lord,
by whose wounds
we are healed.
Amen.