Events and Activities : St. Francis of Assisi Day: Blessing of Animals set for Oct. 4

Pastor Jessica blesses a kitten held by Sara Johnson at the 2014 Blessing of the Animals service

On Sunday, October 4 at 2 p.m., the Presbyterian Church of Vinton will hold a Blessing of the Animals Service. This service is open to the public.

Adults, children, and their pets are invited to join in a short service of scripture readings and prayers. This will be followed by individual blessings for each animal present. Pets will receive special certificates of their blessing.

A Blessing of the Animals service is a celebration of the importance of pets and domestic animals in our lives, as well as a recognition of thanksgiving for labor animals and livestock.

The calendar date of the service is set based on the saint day of St. Francis of Assisi (observed October 4), who is renown for his deep affection and care for animals. St. Francis died October 3, 1226 C.E. Both Protestant and Catholic churches celebrate his saint day by holding special services to honor both pets and labor animals. He is known as the founder of the Franciscan Order.

The service will begin at 2 p.m. on the steps of the Presbyterian Church, located at 608 1st Avenue (across from the Post Office). All pets are invited – from goldfish to ponies. Pets should be on leashes or in a cage/carrier.

Refreshments will be served following the service.