Island pets to receive blessings this Saturday
Island pets are encourage to bring their humans to church this weekend in celebration of a day dedicated to St. Francis of Asissi, regarded world-wide as the patron saint of animals and the environment. Several island clergy will recognize this by celebrating St. Francis feast day with a Blessing of the Animals at St. John’s Episcopal Church located at 7771 Stringfellow Road in St. James City. The blessing will take place on Saturday, Oct. 2, beginning at 11 a.m. This, the 10th annual Blessing of the Animals, 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 just for them.
Assisting the Rev. Ryan A. Wright, vicar of St. John’s, will be the Rev. Roger Lemke of Fishers of Men Lutheran Church and Father Michael Hughes of Our Lady of the Miraculous Medal Catholic Church.
Pastor Lemke has participated in the animal blessing since its onset 10 years ago.
“I look forward to the blessing every year and, in fact, I keep it reserved on my calendar. It is a nice get-together and a time when we can remind people that animals are not here just by chance and that it is important to know that God does care for animals, too,” Lemke said. “I particularly enjoy being around animals and their people and while each year there are repeats, there is also an equal share of new faces at the event.”
According to Lemke, the number of attendees has fluctuated little over the years and attracts between 50 to 75 pets and owners, however, one thing has changed in recent years.
“The last two years, the majority of the pets we see are dogs and cats, but in years past we have had some amazing animals,” said Lemke. “I remember a few years ago, someone brought a beautiful macaw and it got a laugh when it landed on the head of one of the pastors. In other years people have brought horses, snakes, rabbits, turtles and all kinds of interesting pets and I look forward to seeing what people will bring with them this year.”
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.
“All animals, large and small, are welcome to gather under the big oak trees in front of the church. The only request is that they be on leashes or contained,” said Jane Bennington with St. John’s Episcopal Church. “If it is too difficult to bring your pet, you are welcome to bring a picture and join us. You don’t even need a pet to participate. This is a great way to start the month and a wonderful opportunity for the whole family to have a Saturday activity together.”
Also offered will be a light lunch of hot dogs, chips and soft drinks or water available for a small donation. Also offered for sale will be medals etched with a special animal blessing, and each pet will receive a personalized certificate indicating that they have received a blessing.
In addition to the service, on hand will be representatives from P.A.W.S., a no-kill animal shelter, who will answer questions about adopting a pet looking for a forever home and the newly opened Puppy Palace who can offer tips on keeping pets groomed.
During the afternoon, St. John’s also will offer flu shots for humans that will be administered by the parish nurse through the Lee County Board of Health.
For more information about this year’s Blessing of the Animals or flu shots, call St. John’s Episcopal Church at 283-1820.