Blessing Of the Animals

Father Drew will preside over a Blessing of the Animals service on Saturday, Oct. 4. The service is a tradition that usually takes place around the Feast of St. Francis of Assisi, the patron saint of animals and the environment. It celebrates the bond between humans and their animal companions, recognizing all creatures as beloved parts of God’s creation. Parishioners bring their pets—dogs, cats, birds, reptiles, and sometimes even farm animals—to receive an individual blessing from Father Drew. The service often includes prayers of thanksgiving for animals, readings that highlight creation care, and hymns that honor God’s work in the natural world.