Blessing of the Animals
In celebration of the Feast Day of St. Francis, many churches around the Diocese offered their communities an opportunity to participate in a pet blessing.
One of the most popular traditions associated with St. Francis is the Blessing of the Animals. Many churches hold special services where people can bring their pets to receive a blessing in honor of St. Francis’s love for all creatures. This joyful event reminds us of our responsibility to care for God’s creation. (Anglican Compass: “The Liturgical Home: The Feast of St. Francis)
Enjoy photos and stories below!
Church of the Epiphany, Chantilly, VA, held a pop-up pet blessing in the front yard of Epiphany members Ralph and Debby on Saturday, Oct. 5. We had a great time meeting the neighborhood pets and their owners!
Corpus Christi Anglican Church, Springfield, VA, held their first annual Blessing of the Animals service for their neighbors on Friday, Oct. 4.
Immanuel Anglican Church, Manassas, VA, held its annual Blessing of the Pets on Sunday afternoon, Oct 6., following their church services. There was even a “People Blessing” area for owners needing prayer support and a blessing.
