Safeguarding our oceans and the marine animals who depend on them requires action on many fronts, from advancing scientific understanding and strengthening policies to tackling threats like plastic pollution. We spoke with marine ecologist and conservation expert Elizabeth Hogan, who has dedicated her career to these issues.

Today, we celebrate Saint Francis of Assisi, whose life remains a powerful testament to compassion, humility, and an authentic reverence for all of God’s creation. Although he lived 800 years ago, his example continues to inspire millions and shape a more loving world.

Pope Leo XIV proclaimed 2026 the Special Year of Saint Francis, to be observed from January 10th, 2026 to January 10th, 2027. Now is an excellent time to reflect on Saint Francis’s message of peace, humility, and love for all of God’s creation while taking meaningful action.

Learn about animal emotions and sentience with world-renowned animal behavior expert Dr. Marc Bekoff on Tuesday, September 29th. Dr. Bekoff will join SFIA to discuss his latest book, Love in Their Hearts: A Celebration of Animal Emotions and a Guide to Compassionate Action. You’ll have a chance to submit your questions live!

What do we really know about the inner lives of fishes? We asked Dr. Jonathan Balcombe, whose book What a Fish Knows offers a captivating look into the science of fishes’ experiences. Read about his journey into studying animal behavior, surprising facts about fishes, and ways to protect these vulnerable creatures.

Interacting with farmed animals can inspire a new way of seeing them. A Labor Day weekend visit to the Central Texas Pig Rescue’s Annual Watermelon Smash offered memorable encounters with rescued pigs, including one named Joni.

As we begin the Season of Creation, Fr. Christopher Steck, SJ reflects on what it means to care for God’s creation by cultivating a “contemplative gaze” that recognizes and appreciates the goodness of each creature.

At the University of South Florida, resident birds are entering the 2026–2027 school year safer, thanks to the compassion and persistence of one student. Learn about how USF student Kaylee Ortega spearheaded a project to raise awareness and protect wildlife.

At Seton Hall University, two delicious and fully plant-based events have brought people together to honor Saint Francis while raising awareness about the impact our food choices have on God’s creation. Learn about these events and other ways one professor is helping others take practical action for our common home.

During the Season of Creation, people around the globe recommit to caring for God’s creation. Inspired by this year’s official theme of abundant, immersive hope and ecological restoration, Living Water (Ezekiel 47: 9,12), we are sharing a series of reflections about marine creatures and those working to protect them.

In Brazil, Catholic priest Father João Paulo de Araújo Gomes has opened his heart and his parish to stray dogs in need, helping them find safety and loving homes. We interviewed him to learn more about his work and compassionate approach.

St. Kateri Tekakwitha (1656–1680), the first Native American person to be canonized by the Catholic Church, is the protectress of Canada and the patroness of environmentalism, ecology, and all Native American and First Nations peoples.

Through PALS (Pets Assisting the Lives of Seniors), Meals on Wheels Central Texas is making a major impact on homebound individuals and their beloved companion animals.

In Queens, New York, Catholic Sister Ave Clark, OP is spreading joy and hope as a pastoral counselor, founder of Heart to Heart Ministry, author, and friend to animals. Discover the lessons and perspective she has gained from two dogs, Sunshine and Sundance.

A new Vatican document that relates integral ecology with family life offers practical guidelines to care for all God’s creatures. Fr. Daniel Mascarenhas, SJ reflects on how this call to action includes concern for animals suffering in factory farms - and how each of us can respect life and reject violence through our daily choices.

St. Philip Neri (1515-1595) is the patron saint of joy and a saint known for his boundless compassion for humans and animals. In stories from his biography, written in 1622, we learn of his empathy for even the tiniest creatures.

Patrick McGrath, a parishioner of St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church in Carbondale, Illinois, shares a reflection on the beginnings of their ministry.

Learn how two innovators are empowering college campuses to address bird-window collisions and, in the process, save birds’ lives.

The Saint Francis Institute for Animals was recently featured in National Catholic Reporter and EWTN News! We are honored to be highlighted by these leading Catholic voices.

The concept of integral ecology reminds us that everything in creation is connected. In this Earth Day reflection, we consider how answering the cry of God’s creatures simultaneously answers the cry of the earth.