Expert: George A. Card,sfo, M.I - 10/17/2008

Question
Dear Mr. Card,

I have another question. Tonight I attended a lecture given by a Franciscan sister who follows the teachings of cosmogenesis. Do you know anything about this philosophy or does your Franciscan lay community know? The sister said that Franciscan spirituality has the essence of cosmogenesis. I've read some things on cosmogenesis, but it seems to exclude God Almighty and Jesus, and just the whole plan of salvation. I do like how cosmogenesis offers an appreciation for nature, but I'm confused on how this philosophy could help one live in Christ.

Thank you.

Answer
Peace


dear Gina,
    I haven't heard of the term cosmogenesis but I don't like the sound of it, as you seem to understand the sister use of it.
    Yes, St. Francis of Assisi and his brethren see a kinship with our fellow creatures. Note I said creatures, which means we as all Catholics and persons of right reason acknowledge we are created by a true and living creator. Man is special, we have a rational soul. Animals don't.


                      your servant but Christ's first
                                 George