During a month of celebration from EARTH DAY (April 22) to the Anniversary of Laudato Si’ (May 28), we have entered into a month of contemplation on the traditional elements of creation: AIR, WATER, FIRE, EARTH (soil).
Join us in reflection on these, the elements. Set aside some time to reflect and be united in our Dominican charism: CONTEMPLATA ET ALIIS TRADERE! [“To hand down to others the fruits of contemplation.”]
AIR
was considered a “pure” element, but in fact the air that’s all around us is made up of a variety of gases: primarily nitrogen and oxygen, with almost 1% argon and even smaller amounts of carbon dioxide and other elements such as krypton and helium.
What is the spiritual meaning of the element of air?
Being that which we breathe, it is essential to life and can be thought of as the primary element. The Greek spiro means “breath,” from this we get inspiration, as if
the gods were filling us with the divine breath. Also connected with stormy wind (creation) and a medium for movement.
CANTICLE OF THE SUN ~ St. Francis of Assisi
Praise for the wind that blows through the trees,
the seas’ mighty storms, the gentlest breeze;
they blow where they will, they blow where they please to please the Lord.
John 3:8 — “The wind blows wherever it pleases. You hear its sound, but you cannot tell where it comes from or where it is going. So it is with everyone born of the Spirit.” NIV
Ecclesiastes 1:6 — The wind blows to the south and turns to the north; round and round it goes, ever returning on its course.
WHO HAS SEEN THE WIND? by Christina Rosetti
Who has seen the wind?
Neither I nor you;
But when the leaves hand trembling,
The wind is passing by.
Who has seen the wind?
Neither you nor I;
When the trees bow down their heads
The wind is passing by.
Continue reflecting on the elements….
Air, Water, Fire, Earth Soil