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Island pets to receive blessing October 8th

By Staff | Sep 27, 2011

Island pets are encouraged to bring their humans to church Saturday, Oct. 8, in celebration of a day dedicated to St. Francis of Assisi, regarded world-wide as the patron saint of animals and the environment. Island clergy will recognize this by celebrating St. Francis feast day with a Blessing of the Animals at St. John’s Episcopal church at 7771 Stringfellow Road in St. James City. The blessing will take place at 11 a.m. This is the 11th annual Blessing of the Animals, which brings together pet owners and animal lovers to share in fellowship and for an opportunity for their furry and feathered friends to receive prayers intended for them. Each pet will receive a personalized certificate indicating that they have each received a blessing.

Assisting the Reverand Ryan A. Wright, vicar of St. John’s, will be Father Michael Hughes from Our Lady of the Miraculous Medal and several other clergy.

This event is open to the public and will commence with a brief outdoor service, which will be followed by the blessing of each animal that has come to church that day. St. John’s only request is that pets be on leashes or contained. If it is too difficult to bring your pet, you are welcome to bring a picture an join us. You don’t even need a pet to participate. This is a wonderful opportunity for the whole family to have a Saturday activity together.

Hotdogs, chips, and soft drinks or water will be available for a minimum donation. Also offered for sale will be medals etched with a special animal blessing.

For more information about this year’s Blessing of the Animals please call St. John’s Episcopal Church at 283-1820