Upcoming events scheduled for Blessing of the Animals

Each year on October 4, followers around the world unite to commemorate the life of St. Francis by bringing their pets to the church to be blessed on St. Francis’ feast day because of his love for animals as expressed in his Canticle of Creatures. He is often remembered for his generosity to the poor, his willingness to minister to the lepers, and for his love for animals and nature.

Currently, the Blessing of the Animals can be either of the animal or of the human-animal relationship, and can apply to pets and other companion animals, or to agricultural animals which humans depend on or interact with. St. Francis was overheard saying, “The animals of God’s creation inhabit the skies, the earth and the sea. We, therefore, invoke God’s blessing on these animals, over all the creatures of the earth.”

St. Peter’s Episcopal Church in Kerrville will be celebrating the day with an event scheduled for Sunday, October 3, at 4 p.m., under the school pavilion. For additional questions call (830) 257-8162.

St. Michael and All Angels Church, 2015 Singing Wind Drive, will recognize the day on Saturday, October 2, at 4 p.m. There will be gift baskets given to the family who brings the most pets along with drawings for prizes.

It is being asked to make sure that pets be restrained, or in a carrier. All minors must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.