On September 13, 2025, the Province of St. Maximilian M. Kolbe in Poland (Gdańsk) celebrated its annual Provincial feast day. The event took place at Święta Góra Polanowska [Holy Mountain of Polanów, Poland], a location chosen specifically for the anniversary. This year’s feast coincided with the 800th anniversary of St. Francis of Assisi composing the Canticle of the Creatures.
The feast day celebrations began in the Our Lady, Gate of Heaven Chapel with everyone singing the Akathist hymn devoted to St. Francis.
The Minister Provincial, Friar Wojciech KULIG, presided over Mass at noon. He began his reflection with the Gospel passage “A good tree does not bear rotten fruit… For every tree is known by its own fruit” [Luke 6:43-45]. He recalled that each person is like a tree planted in God’s garden: “Goodness does not come from appearances, from facades, but grows from the depths of the heart. If our roots are immersed in love, humility, and patience, the fruit will be peace and goodness. But if we nourish anger or indifference, even the most beautiful branches will begin to wither.” He then called attention to the surprising topicality of the Canticle of the Creatures, which St. Francis composed while he was ill and suffering: “It is a hymn of joy and gratitude born from the deepest physical and spiritual darkness. Francis was not stopped by pain, he transformed it into praise for God and all of creation.”
During the Mass, the Fraternitatis Gratiarum Award was bestowed upon Barbara TUTAJ, whose service and commitment to the Conventual Franciscan community were particularly appreciated.
After the Mass, the participants gathered at the Jubilee Obelisk carrying copies of the text of the Canticle of the Creatures that had been blessed by the Minister Provincial. Two linden trees, symbols of life and hope, were planted next to the obelisk.
The day continued with a fraternal gathering that gave the friars a chance to celebrate together and strengthen communion. The celebration concluded with the recitation of Evening Prayer, presided over by the Vicar Provincial, Friar Robert WOŁYNIEC. The prayer was the conclusion to a day filled with gratitude, joy, and authentic Franciscan spirit.
Maja STUDZIŃSKA
