Pet Blessings Held for Feast of St. Francis

The Feast of St. Francis of Assisi, celebrated on October 4, is a widely observed event in which pets receive blessings in honor of the saint known for his love of animals. Churches around the world, including Ascension Lutheran Church in Franklin Square and St. Peter’s Church in Monument, held pet blessing ceremonies, with pastors and priests offering prayers and individual blessings to pets like dogs, cats, and even guinea pigs and birds. These ceremonies not only focus on the well-being of the animals but also provide comfort and spiritual support to the pet owners. At Marquette University, the tradition was embraced with blessings held for a variety of pets, highlighting the appreciation for the unconditional love and joy animals bring to people’s lives. This tradition, rooted in the stories of St. Francis's interactions with animals, such as taming the wolf of Gubbio, emphasizes the importance of caring for all creatures. The event is popular among both Catholic and Protestant communities, reflecting its broad appeal and significance.