Feast of St. Francis of Assisi
Blessing of Animals
Sunday, October 1, 2017
The tradition of blessing animals coincides with the Feast of St. Francis of Assisi, the patron saint of animals. Francis of Assisi was born into a rich family, but renounced his wealth and lived in poverty. He lived his life with a profound love and respect for all creatures, man and animals alike. He is said to have once stopped to deliver a sermon, including a blessing to a flock of wild birds, and also to have tamed a ferocious wolf that was threatening a nearby town.
On Sunday, October 1, 2017, the Feast of Francis of Assisi, St. Philip’s Episcopal Church invites you to a special service honoring St. Francis and offering blessings for animals.
Well-behaved pets are invited to bring their well-behaved owners for a blessing service inside the church during our regular 10 am service. The blessing itself will take place at the end, around 11 am, so you can come then if you don’t think your pet will make it through the whole service. Treats for pets and their humans will be available at coffee hour.
Those who have difficulty with crowds may be represented by photographs, leash, crate, cage, tank, halter, or bridle. We also remember all creatures who have made our lives special.
Donations of pet food will be accepted and donated to Rochester Area Neighborhood House to help those within our community who are experiencing difficulties be able to provide for their pets.
