This popular community event returns on Sunday, October 23, at 4 p.m. The brief service and pet blessing will take place out-of-doors (moved to the adjacent social hall in case of rain).

Simply load your dog, cat, bird, turtle … whatever! … into your car and drive to the church parking lot at 5625-24th Street (just south of Fruitridge Road). There will be music and a special message to enjoy while you wait your turn for your pets to receive a personal blessing from Bethany pastor Rev. Jesse Larson. Masks are not required but will be available for your comfort.

You may alternately choose to sit in your car and listen on your radio to the brief service. The pastor will come to your vehicle and bless your pet.

Rev. Jesse and church pet-lovers will have a goody bag for you to take home with you.

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

Click here to see photos from the 2021 Blessing of the Pets event.