Blessing of the Animals ceremonies held to commemorate the Feast Day of St. Francis of Assisi

Animal lovers gathered at St. Pius X Church in Portland on Saturday, October 7, to have their pets blessed, just one of many Blessing of the Animals services that are being held across the Diocese of Portland.

Having pets blessed is a tradition around the Feast Day of Saint Francis of Assisi, which is October 4, because the saint was known for his love of nature and his care for animals, who he considered his brothers and sisters. The ceremonies provide an opportunity to pray for the care of creation and to express gratitude to God for the gift of pets in many people’s lives.

“We think it’s very important to have the animals blessed because they are all part of God’s kingdom,” said Mary Polito of Portland, who has brought her dog, Demi, to be blessed every year for the past 15 years.

“We think it’s important that we prize our animals and have them blessed,” said Vrege Murray of Portland, about her dog, Fawnz. “She is an integral part of our family. She goes everywhere we go.”

“I’ve been the person in the family who was afraid of dogs and for some reason this little guy bonded with me, and we became pals,” said Judi Grasso of Portland about her dog, Cappuccino.  “My sister convinced me that I should come here to have him blessed.”

The ceremony at St. Pius X Church, was led by Father Brian Conley, SJ, who asked God to “bless all of these pets by the power of your love.” He then walked among the animals, giving each an individual blessing.

More ceremonies are being held on Sunday, October 8. A list can be found here.