Revisiting Blessing of the Animals Service | September 29, 2024
The Rev. Susie Parker: Guiding the Flock
Despite the sweltering heat, the Saint Barnabas community found comfort and joy beneath the Ramada as we gathered for this year’s Blessing of the Animals. Led by our Deacon, The Rev. Susie Parker, the service radiated warmth beyond just the weather. Her heartfelt words and gentle blessings revealed the deep bond between people and their animal companions. The air buzzed with both reverence and excitement as pets—big and small—came forward to be blessed. This year’s service, held outdoors to honor the legacy of St. Francis, was a beautiful reminder of our shared compassion for all of God’s creatures. The day was filled with laughter, love, and a shared sense of connection despite the intense heat, from eager dogs with wagging tails to curious cats and even a few exotic pets.
In honor of St. Francis of Assisi this month, pets receive a blessing and confirmation from their owners that all of God’s creatures are cherished and beloved.
This time of year, people in various places may notice something odd. A procession of animals, from dogs and cats to hamsters and horses, is led to churches for a special ceremony called the Blessing of Pets. This custom is conducted in remembrance of Saint Francis of Assisi’s love for all creatures.
Francis, whose feast day is October 4th, loved the larks flying about his hilltop town. He and his early brothers, staying in a small hovel, allowed themselves to be displaced by a donkey. Francis wrote a Canticle of the Creatures, an ode to God’s living things. “All praise to you, Oh Lord, for all these brother and sister creatures.”
Moments of Blessing and Reflection
“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 Saint 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.”
The pet is gently sprinkled with holy water as the prayer is offered. Pets receive this sacramental spritz with dignity, though I must admit I have seen some cats flatten their ears as the drops of water lightly pelt them.
Explore the gallery below to relive the joy and heartwarming moments of this year’s Blessing of the Animals! Whether you were there in person or couldn’t attend, these photos beautifully capture the day’s spirit—revisit the wagging tails. Let these images remind you of our love, community, and deep connection with God’s creatures!
