Participating in religious ceremonies is, admittedly, not one of my regular activities. That’s an understatement. However, when it comes to my pets, I see no reason not to potentially give them an edge. If Saint Francis is willing to look over my pup, far be it for me to say no.
Therefore, off to the Blessing of the Animals event we go – on October 5, just one day after the Feast of Saint Francis of Assisi believed to be celebrated on October 4.
I took my spaniel, Victoria, to the Blessing of the Pets because I knew that stress is not an issue for her. In fact, she loves new energy, new people, and new experiences with me. I wasn’t sure, however, how she’d respond to other creatures, considering the ceremony is open to all beloved animals—dogs, cats, birds, and even smaller creatures like guinea pigs, hamsters, and reptiles.
Blessing of the Pets Tradition
The Blessing of the Pets tradition has deep roots in the life and teachings of St. Francis of Assisi, the patron saint of animals and the environment. St. Francis, who lived in the 12th century, was known for his profound love of all living beings. According to biblical historians, he believed that animals were part of God’s creation, worthy of care and protection, just as humans are. Clearly, a belief many pet people can get behind.
St. Francis’ apparent reverence for the natural world is central to the modern Blessing of the Animals, which emphasizes the spiritual bond between humans and animals. At its core, the ceremony reminds us of St. Francis’ message: animals, like humans, deserve compassion, care, and protection. They are integral members of the spiritual and natural world.
In practicality, the Blessing of the Pets could be a zoo. So, I wasn’t sure what to expect. I’ve also been to very few church services.
Attending the Blessing of the Pets
Here’s what happened at the Blessing of the Pets we participated in at a local Anglican church:
- First, the service we attended was small and indoors, which surprised me considering keeping excited dogs inside for more than an hour is a bit risky. Despite taking a walk outside the building before we entered, my pup had to go the minute we left.
- Second, there were only dogs at the Blessing of the Pets ceremony we attended, about a dozen in total including a very friendly bully in the choir.
- Third, there was an entire service before the blessing, though admittedly shortened, considering the attention spans of the audience. But there were biblical readings, choir performances, and some prayer. A highlight was the reverend’s recount of her daily interaction with a wild crow she befriended.
When it was time for the Blessing of the Animals, I headed to the front of the pews. I picked up my pup – she was squirmy and excited to see everyone around her. During the reciting of the short blessing, the reverend patted my dog’s head … while my crazy spaniel licked faces then took dog cookies from both the reverend and the next person helping her. I was handed a Saint Francis charm to hang on my dog’s collar. Now, Saint Francis travels with her.
Impact of the Blessing of the Pets
Overall, the value of animals and their place in the environment and our lives was central to the introductory sermon, which much to my surprise I found moving. Francis of Assisi’s belief in the value of animals was the thread, along with his riches to rags story. In the 12th century, he was born into a rich family and spent time fighting medieval wars, even spending a year as a prisoner of war. Then he gave up all his family wealth to become an impoverished friar, founding the religious order of the Franciscans.
Nine centuries later, we’re blessing our fur babies annually on October 4 or 5. The Blessing of the Pets ceremony is open to fur babies of all denominations, and their people. Likely everyone participating – including me – appreciated the core meaning of the day: gratitude for the companionship and joy animals bring to our lives.
For more dog-friendly events and activities, please check out our Canadian Pet Events Page.
Writer bio: Sherri Telenko has been a professional writer for decades and a travel writer for the last two. She’s a member of TMAC (Travel Media Association of Canada) and Dog Writers Association of America and travels almost weekly with her canine companion, Victoria.Contact Sherri at dogtrotting.net here. All written content is original, written by a person, and based on experience and research. Please subscribe!
