Season of Creation 2026: Living Water
From 1 September to 4 October, Christians throughout the world celebrate the Season of Creation, an ecumenical time of prayer, reflection and action for the care of our common home. The Season begins with the World Day of Prayer for the Care of Creation and concludes on the Feast of St Francis of Assisi.
The theme for 2026 is 'Living Water: Immersion in Living Water,' inspired by the prophet Ezekiel: 'Wherever the river flows, everything will live.' Ezekiel 47:9
Ezekiel imagines water flowing from the Temple of God into dry, lifeless places. As the river deepens, barren land becomes fertile, trees bear fruit and damaged places are restored. It is a powerful image of hope: God's presence brings healing, renewal and life.
The image also carries a challenge. We are invited not simply to stand beside the river, but to step into the living water, allowing God's grace to change us and then becoming sources of life for others. Our care for water, land, oceans, plants, animals and one another becomes an expression of our faith and our responsibility for God's creation.
A Prayer for the Season of Creation
God of Creation,
we thank you for the gift of water,
for the rivers and oceans,
for the rain that nourishes the earth,
and for every living thing that depends upon it.
As living water brought life to the barren places in Ezekiel's vision,
let your grace flow through our world today.
Where creation is damaged, bring healing.
Where water is polluted or scarce, inspire justice.
Where people and communities suffer, awaken compassion.
Where we have taken your gifts for granted, change our hearts.
Help us to step more deeply into the living water of your love.
May our choices protect rather than harm,
restore rather than diminish,
and bring life rather than take it away.
Make us faithful carers of our common home
and sources of hope for one another,
so that through our words and actions
your healing love may flow through all creation.
Amen.
Sources: Season of Creation 2026 Celebration Guide, Ecumenical Season of Creation Steering Committee