The sidewalk in front of St. Anselm Church was the place to be as friendly dogs and cats met for the annual Blessing of the Animals which took place following the 11 am Mass on Saturday, October 2nd. The animals and their humans enjoyed the opportunity to catch up and, in some cases, get to know each other as they waited for the celebrant, Fr. Anthony to arrive.
Father warmly greeted both two- and four-legged attendees and spoke about the important role of animals as workers and in providing comfort to their owners. Fr. Anthony read the prayer:
“O, God the author and giver of every gift, animals also are part of the way you provide help for our needs and labors. We pray through the intercession of St. Francis that you will make available for our use the things we need to maintain a decent human life. We ask this through Christ Our Lord, Amen.”
At the conclusion of the prayer, the owners brought their pets (or a photo of their pet) for an individual blessing.
On behalf of Samantha, Peanut, Gilly, Nolan, Maisie, Xena, Mikey, Pippa, Frankie Jude, Nash, and all the other precious pets, we thank Fr. Anthony for his lovely blessing and Msgr. Maloney for encouraging this heart-warming St. Anselm event.
All the best,
The St. Anselm Publicity Committee