Episode
Meditation on Mortality: Welcoming Sister Death
- Published
- May 9, 2026
- Duration seconds
- 700
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- https://shows.acast.com/the-daily-meditation-with-brother-richard/episodes/canticle-of-the-creatures-part-6-welcoming-sister-death
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Summary
In this meditation, I guide you through the final part of St. Francis’ Canticle of the Creatures, reflecting on what he calls “Sister Death.” Rather than approaching death with fear alone, this meditation invites a gentler and more contemplative perspective, recognising mortality as part of the shared experience of being human. We begin by settling into the body and the breath, allowing awareness to deepen into stillness. From here, the meditation reflects on the closing verses of the Canticle, where St. Francis speaks of death not as an enemy, but as a companion within the wider mystery of life. Through gentle reflection, you are invited to consider how awareness of mortality can deepen appreciation for life, encouraging us to live more fully, more lovingly and more consciously. The practice also opens into gratitude for those who have gone before us, recognising the enduring power of love, compassion and connection. This is not a meditation of fear or sadness, but one of perspective, intimacy and peace, holding life and death together within a wider sense of meaning. This meditation offers a moment of calm, whether you are pausing during the day or reflecting more deeply on life, helping you cultivate gratitude, perspective and compassionate awareness. This meditation supports reflection, acceptance and inner peace. Chapters: 00:00 – Introduction 00:11 – The Canticle of the Creatures 00:26 – Divine presence in creation 00:51 – Welcoming Sister Death 01:03 – The bell 01:26 – Settling into posture 02:11 – Awareness of the breath 02:55 – St. Francis and Sister Death 03:07 – Death as companion 03:41 – Reflecting on the verse 04:11 – Intimacy with mortality 04:46 – Living life fully 05:41 – The meaning of the Canticle 06:26 – Life enriched by mortality 06:51 – Remembering…