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Video: Blessing of the Pets at St. Florian Catholic Church
Shane Dunlap | Tribune-Review
Dane Firmstone, 9, gets a giant hug from his family dog, Sawyer, a 1 year-old Great Dane, after families had participated in a blessing of the pets Monday, Oct. 2, 2017 at St. Florian Parish near Mt. Pleasant. The blessing of the animals is usually hosted during the feast of St. Francis of Assisi, which falls on October 4th.
The traditional Blessing of the Pets is usually held in early October and is conducted in remembrance of St. Francis of Assisi's love for all creatures. The patron saint of animals, St. Francis' feast day is Oct. 4.
A typical blessing, according to franciscanmedia.org:
“Blessed are you, Lord God, maker of all living creatures. You called forth fish in the sea, birds in the air and animals on the land. You inspired St. Francis to call all of them his brothers and sisters. We ask you to bless this pet. By the power of your love, enable it to live according to your plan. May we always praise you for all your beauty in creation. Blessed are you, Lord our God, in all your creatures! Amen.”
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