Animal Blessing

The Blessing of Animals 
In honor of St. Francis of Assisi
TODAY... Sunday, October 4th — 1:30pm!
    The bond between person and pet is like no other relationship, because the communication between fellow creatures is at its most basic. Eye-to-eye, a person with their  pet are two creatures of love. No wonder people enjoy the opportunity to take their animal companions to church for a special blessing. Church is the place where the bond of creation is celebrated.  As the prayer is offered, the pet is sprinkled with holy water. Believe it or not, most pets receive this sacramental “spritz” with dignity. And who knows what spiritual benefits may result? 
    This traditional Blessing of Pets, given in honor of the Feast of Saint Francis of Assisi [whose Feast Day is celebrated on October 4th], is a reminder of the many ways God shows His love for us.  It also is a beautiful reminder of the admonition found in the Book of Genesis... “Let them have dominion over... all the earth, and over everything that creeps upon the earth....have dominion over the fish of the sea and over the birds of the air and over every living thing that moves upon the earth.” [Genesis 1:26,28].
    In His goodness, God gives us everything we need to see His love at work.  He gives us everything we need to find Him.  The Traditional Blessing of the Pets will take place TODAY... (Sunday, October 4th) 1:30 pm outside of the junior high building, by the statue of the Blessed Virgin Mary (north of the church & Ministry Center).  Bring your pets, safely secured on a leach/cage, etc. to receive this special blessing from the Lord, through His Church.