St. Mary of the Mount Church & St. Adalbert Church
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Blessing of the Animals
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As we celebrate the memorial of Saint Francis of Assisi this the first week of October, he is one of the best known and most loved saints of the Church. Saint Francis renounced his wealth and privilege and dedicated himself to the service of the poor. He has inspired countless followers to carry on the work of Jesus by ministering to those in need. Our current Pope took his name from Saint Francis as a model of simple, humble service to God’s people.
Saint Francis was also known for his love of nature and of all God’s creatures. The origins of the nativity scenes that most Christians display at Christmas can be traced back to Saint Francis, as he reportedly used live animals in a stable-scene to help the faithful appreciate the realities of the first Christmas. Saint Francis is often invoked as a patron saint of nature and animals.
In recognition of Saint Francis of Assisi, we are offering a Blessing of Animals on Sunday, October 8, 2023, at 1:00 PM at two locations*- Saint Adalbert Church (160 S. 15th Street in South Side, gather in the 14th Street Parking Lot)
- Saint Mary of the Mount Church (407 Grandview Avenue on Mt. Washington, gather in the Parking Lot)
Please bring your pets you would like to have blessed. And please keep in mind that if your bird, lizard, cat or dog, etc., are not used to being around a lot of other animals, he/she may be nervous or scared – a box, crate, or blanket may help to keep them calm. Also, even if your pet is good around other animals, another pet present may not be. So to "keep the peace" among our animal friends, please make sure your furry friends are leashed or crated.
