By PJ Parker.
The field behind St. Matthias Church was the gathering place on Oct. 7 for many township furry friends and their families as they came for Sunday’s Blessing of the Animals.
The event honored the Feast of St. Francis, patron saint of animals.
Deacon John of St. Matthias Parish conducted the blessings as he greeted and welcomed all.
“I am here today in gratitude for all God’s creatures,” said Deacon John. As he prayed a blessing for all animals present, he also individually anointed each animal with Holy Water.
Sr. Marie Therese Sherwood of the Order of St. Francis, said that, “this will be my 12th year of the blessing of the animals here at St. Matthias.”
“St. Francis of Assisi especially loved animals and all God’s creatures.,” she said. “We tried to coordinate the blessing day on a Sunday as close to Oct. 4 as possible to commemorate the actual Feast of St. Francis, or the date of his death.”
“I delight in being a part of our families bringing their beloved animals to be blessed,” she said.
Also present was former Mayor Chris Kelly, who brought his two rescue pups to be blessed.
“I wouldn’t have a house without an animal, and this is such a great event,” he said. “I know the dogs benefit from the blessings.”
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Here are some scenes from the day: