Francis Preaches to the Birds

One day, as Saint Francis of Assisi traveled through the Spoleto Valley, he happened upon a great multitude of birds of various species. Moved by his deep love for all creation, he left his companions on the road and ran toward the flock. To his surprise, the birds did not fly away but waited as if in expectation. Francis greeted them, calling them his 'little sisters,' and felt compelled to preach to them. He told the birds they should be profoundly grateful to God, their Creator, who gave them feathers for clothing, wings for flight, and the pure air for their home. He reminded them that they neither sow nor reap, yet God provides them with food and drink. As he spoke, the birds stretched their necks, spread their wings, and bowed their heads in reverence. Francis walked among them, touching them with his tunic, and only when he gave them his blessing and the sign of the cross did they take flight in four directions, filling the sky with song.