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CV NEWS FEED // The Diocese of Rochester, New York, will begin its annual pet blessing ceremonies October 2 in honor of the feast of St. Francis of Assisi, which is traditionally celebrated October 4.
Twenty-five different parishes within the diocese will host pet blessings until October 13. According to Franciscan Media, pet blessings are a custom adopted to remember and commemorate St. Francis’ love for animals.
“The bond between person and pet is like no other relationship, because the communication between fellow creatures is at its most basic. Eye to eye are two creatures of love,” Franciscan Media wrote in a blog post, explaining the purpose of the blessings. “No wonder people enjoy taking their animal companions to church for a blessing. Church is the place where the bond of creation is celebrated.”
According to a different article from Franciscan Media, the blessing of pets includes a prayer and a sprinkling of holy water.
“The Blessing of Pets usually goes like this,” Franciscan Media reported:
Blessed are you, Lord God, maker of all living creatures. You called forth fish in the sea, birds in the air and animals on the land. You inspired Saint Francis to call all of them his brothers and sisters. We ask you to bless this pet. By the power of your love, enable it to live according to your plan. May we always praise you for all your beauty in creation. Blessed are you, Lord our God, in all your creatures! Amen.
A full list of times and locations of pet blessings in the Diocese of Rochester is available online.
