St. Francis of Assisi was a remarkable saint who had a deep love of the poor and of God’s creation. He had a profound connection with animals, in particular. Accounts report that he would speak to animals and that they would understand him. He believed that every living thing reflected God’s beauty and love in special and different ways. A tradition of blessing animals thus developed in the Church in honor of St. Francis of Assisi.
On Wednesday, October 4, we will celebrate the Feast of St. Francis of Assisi, with a special assembly and blessing of animals at 8:30am! Parents and families are welcome to bring their animals for a special blessing during the morning assembly.
Please note the following important guidelines for the prayer service.
- Dogs must be kept on a leash and away from children at all times. Aggressive dogs should not attend.
- Cats must be kept in a crate or cat leash.
- Fish and other small animals are welcome and must be kept in their cages at all times even if “friendly.”
- All pets must be taken home after the assembly closes that morning.
- Plush animals and pictures of animals are welcome if your real pets are too busy!