Bethany’s bringing back its popular Blessing of the Animals on Sunday, October 6, starting 5 p.m. Bring your beloved “socialized” pets to the special outdoor service—rain or shine (we’ll have canopies)—and each one will receive the traditional St. Francis “pet blessing.” Dogs on leashes, please, and cats/small critters in boxes or containers. Free refreshments will be served afterward.

St Francis of Assisi, the patron saint of animals and the environment, was born in the 12th century. He died October 4, 1226 and was pronounced a saint in 1228.

“Lord, make me an instrument of thy peace. Where there is hatred, let me sow love.” -St. Francis of Assisi

We welcome you at this delightful and informal celebration of pets!