Eco-Spirituality of St. Francis of Assisi: A New Contribution to Franciscan Thought by Br. Santosh Ekka, OFM
In an age increasingly marked by ecological crises and a growing search for sustainable ways of living, Br. Santosh Ekka, OFM offers a timely and profound contribution through his book, Eco-Spirituality of St. Francis of Assisi. This insightful work invites readers to rediscover the ecological wisdom of Francis of Assisi through a deeply theological and spiritual lens.
Rather than presenting St. Francis merely as an environmental figure in the modern sense, Br. Santosh roots Francis firmly in his identity as a disciple of Christ Crucified. The book highlights that Francis’s relationship with creation flowed from his intimate union with God and his radical Gospel-centered life. It is precisely this Christ-centeredness that shaped his profound sensitivity toward all creatures and the whole created order.
The book carefully unfolds how Francis cultivated four essential relationships: with God, with others, with creation, and with himself. These interconnected relationships form the heart of Franciscan spirituality and reveal a holistic vision of life. Br. Santosh explains that for Francis, ecological harmony was not an isolated concern but the fruit of a deeply integrated spiritual life.
One of the strengths of this work lies in its presentation of eco-spirituality as relational spirituality. In a world often fractured by exploitation, consumerism, and ecological destruction, the life of St. Francis offers a compelling alternative—a way of living marked by harmony, reverence, simplicity, and gratitude.
This book is particularly relevant in today’s context, where the Church, inspired by Pope Francis and his encyclical Laudato Si', continues to call humanity toward care for our common home. Br. Santosh’s work enriches this conversation by bringing the original Franciscan vision into contemporary ecological discourse.
Eco-Spirituality of St. Francis of Assisi is not merely an academic study but also a spiritual guide for all those seeking to live responsibly and faithfully in today’s world. It will be of great value to friars, religious, theologians, students, and all lovers of Franciscan spirituality.
The Province congratulates Br. Santosh Ekka, OFM for this valuable contribution to Franciscan scholarship and spiritual reflection. May this work inspire many to embrace a life of deeper harmony with God, humanity, and all creation.
The book is available for purchase through Media House Publications, a platform known for publishing Franciscan and spiritual literature. Interested readers can order the book online at a special price of ₹220 (originally ₹230). It would be a valuable addition to personal collections, formation libraries, and theological institutions.
ISBN: 978-93-94507-49-4