Book excerpt: This book gathers together, for the first time, the contributions of outstanding Franciscan scholars who offer their insightful interpretations of the primary Franciscan sources as they speak to today's environmental concerns. Beginning with sacred Scripture and proceeding to the classical Franciscan texts, the reader is immersed in the rich heritage of Franciscan thought that probes the heights and depths of God's relationship to the cosmos. Includes questions for reflection and discussion that prompt the individual or group to see the relationship among the ideas raised, to think more deeply about these concerns and to consider their relevance to themselves and the global community. Supplemental materials include a list of resources and and action organizations, a glossary of essential terms, journal exercises and suggestions for research and reflection papers.