Blessing of the Animals, 3 pm
Sunday, October 06, 2024, 3:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Annual Blessing of the Animals takes place on Sunday, October 6th!
Have you noticed that our relationship with our pets has continued to grow and change just like the rest of life? At one time animals were either wild or domesticated. As we began to live not only on farms but also in cities, the value of the human/animal relationship changed even more toward pets being a real member of the family. Just ask a veterinarian: they will tell you. In many ways, the passing of an animal friend, even a wild one that you have followed over the years, can be like the passing of a family member. I know many people who have asked to be buried with the ashes of their beloved pets. Having a strong relationship with a pet or observing wild creatures reminds us that Creation encompasses much more than human relationships alone. It makes us care for the whole, can reveal the unconditional love of God, and the awe and wonder of Creation daily. Why not lift them up for a blessing?!
We know that the traditional reason for celebrating the Blessing of the Animals has been to remember St. Francis, the Saint we associate with care for all living things and the poor, and to bless our pets up as our means of blessing all living creatures. That is still true today, of course, just expanded. Come join us for a brief time of prayer and the blessing of animals on Sunday, October 6th, at 3 pm. We will gather where appropriate on the church grounds and continue to bless all living things (...with your companion animals on leash or in a carrier so all are safe!) See you there! --Rev. Terri