Over a weekend in April, the Church of St Francis, Heartsease in East Norwich, walked together in the spirit of St. Francis, with Franciscan Brother Sam, exploring faith, creation, and community, in the 800th anniversary of the Saint’s death.
On the Saturday afternoon families and individuals of all ages enjoyed an outdoor wildcraft session in the “eco field” just behind the church building, for a hands-on, joyful time of connecting with God’s creation, even in the middle of a large inner-city social housing estate. There was banner-making and nature art, free minor bike repairs, hot chocolate, and toasting of marshmallows over our fire pit. “Together, with Brother Sam”, said the Revd Julian Bryant, “We explored how God’s love shines through nature and how we can deepen our care for his world.”
Saturday evening saw over 50 people gather in he church to listen to Brother Sam share the story of St. Francis, a man who profoundly followed Jesus with radical love and simplicity, and how his life can still speak to us today—calling us to embrace a life of humility, peace, and devotion. “Our broken world needs the example of St Francis’ life and witness more than ever,” he said. “Loss of social cohesion, loss of connection with the natural world; loss of connection to the Divine. We are all made of the same stuff as our sisters and brothers, in both humankind and nature – we are called to bring reconciliation and peace.”
Brother Sam reflected on how St. Francis’ example can inspire us to live more fully in the love of Christ and care for His creation and led the audience in a rousing acapella rendition of “Laudato Si’ Mi Signore”.
At the Sunday morning service, Bother Sam preached: “We are, at every Eucharist taken, blessed, broken and shared. We are living the resurrection power and peace in our lives and as witnesses to this in our community.”
Brother Sam is a Franciscan living in a vibrant community in Plaistow, London, where the challenges of homelessness and isolation are met with a radical hospitality rooted in prayer and love. Known for his ministry at Hilfield Friary in Dorset, he has long been dedicated to sustainable living, environmental care, and offering a welcoming space for those in need. Revd Bryant concludes: “Brother Sam’s life and work are a powerful reminder that the way of St. Francis offers a profound re-orientation of our hearts—calling us to live out our faith with love for Christ and a deep reverence for the world he made.”