As I reread the song, and looked up some biographical info on Marty Haugen, I am now inclined to think it was intended as some sort of sentimental, tree-hugging, environmentalist kind of song. You know, the idea that we are linked to all the earth by our interdependencies. That is how I read the brother-sister-mother-father symbolism. As we need the earth for food, water, air, and so on, we must care for the soil, air, water resources, plants, and animals, or collectively the environment.
YoungTradCath asks whether it will be interpreted properly in terms of our Catholic faith. Indeed, a few impressionable members of the congregation may be misled into thinking, as the song goes, that the elements of nature are sacred persons, and the corners of the earth are sacred lands. The song seems to say that everything is sacred. This, together with all the strong symbolism, might lend support to false beliefs like pantheism.
Therefore, I would not advocate the use of this song in the Mass, or in children’s religious education.
Berrylos-What do you think of these lyrics?
** Most high, all powerful, all good Lord! All praise is yours, all glory, all honor, and all blessing. To you, alone, Most High, do they belong. No mortal lips are worthy to pronounce your name.
Be praised, my Lord, through all your creatures, especially through my lord
Brother Sun, who brings the day; and you give light through him. And he is beautiful and radiant in all his splendor! Of you, Most High, he bears the likeness.
Be praised, my Lord, through
Sister Moon and the stars; in the heavens you have made them, precious and beautiful.
Be praised, my Lord, through
Brothers Wind and Air, and clouds and storms, and all the weather, through which you give your creatures sustenance.
Be praised, My Lord, through
Sister Water; she is very useful, and humble, and precious, and pure.
Be praised, my Lord, through
Brother Fire, through whom you brighten the night. He is beautiful and cheerful, and powerful and strong.
Be praised, my Lord, through our sister
Mother Earth, who feeds us and rules us, and produces various fruits with colored flowers and herbs.
Be praised, my Lord, through those who forgive for love of you; through those who endure sickness and trial. Happy those who endure in peace, for by you, Most High, they will be crowned.
Be praised, my Lord, through our Sister Bodily Death, from whose embrace no living person can escape. Woe to those who die in mortal sin! Happy those she finds doing your most holy will. The second death can do no harm to them.
Praise and bless my Lord, and give thanks, and serve him with great humility.**
(italics and underline mine-for emphasis.)
My opinion?
I think “tree huggers” are in good company.
