The Blessing of the Animals, a custom originating in the 13th century, is attributed to St. Francis of Assisi, who held a great sense of care and respect for each creature. Statues of St. Francis with birds and animals adorn many gardens, to remind us of God’s love for all creatures, great and small. 

There are many scriptural references to animals, beginning with the Genesis story, in which God creates every living thing and puts humankind in charge of caring for and  overseeing them. He blessed them to be fruitful and  multiply. So blessing animals is an original activity as old as creation, a thing we do in imitation of the Creator. In fact, by giving Adam the task of naming the animals, God enjoins on us also an interest in, and knowledge and care of, this lower creation.

All—whether or not you own a pet—are invited to join us as we, the  created, give thanks to the Creator.

 To those bringing pets, please be sure they are properly restrained/contained… dogs on leash, cats in carriers, hamsters and birds in cages, fish in bowl; snakes, lizards, turtles in 
 terrariums… you get the picture.