The Canticle

The Canticle, located at 841 Thirteenth Avenue North in Clinton, Iowa, has been home to the Sisters of St. Francis since April 1997. It was named after the inspirational song of praise, The Canticle of the Creatures, written by St. Francis of Assisi. The Canticle currently houses 35 residents. While sisters may live and minister in other parts of the United States, The Canticle will always be their home.

An outdoor memorial walk is located out the back door of The Canticle, beginning at the reflection pond and shrine to Mary, Mother of God. The path circles the orchard while giving an outstanding view of the prairie and woodland. As stewards of God's creation, the sisters take great care to maintain the natural beauty of the prairie and land surrounding The Canticle.

Find out about the many events which are held at The Canticle; from spiritual retreats that renew the soul to film screenings, lectures, and social justice programs.

You are invited to visit The Canticle to sit lightly upon the earth ~ explore the prairie, relax in the gazebo, sit by the pond, pray in the chapel beneath the rose window designed to reflect the natural surroundings... retreat, refresh, renew your Franciscan spirit.

Art at The Canticle

Since its opening, The Canticle has attracted gifts that have permitted the commissioning of new art to grace its rooms. The blessing of these gifts is ongoing and often unexpected. Artists help us define who we are and where we are going.

Prairie and Woodland

The Sisters of St. Francis recognize the interdependent web of all existence and honor the sacredness of all Creation, as expressed in our corporate stand concerning Care of Creation. We commit ourselves to respect and care for the earth, especially the land entrusted to us in Clinton, Iowa.

Bell Tower

The bell tower stands at the entrance of The Canticle. The bell was donated in 1902 by James Barry of Clinton, Iowa, in memory of his mother, Mary.

Alternative Energy

Solar panels were installed by Independent Energy Systems, Clinton, Iowa, in the prairie east of The Canticle between October 2014 and March 2015.