The Lord God formed
out of te ground various
wild animals and
various birds of the air.
Dear Parishioners and Visitors,
Following the 10:00 AM Mass this Sunday, October 4, we
will gather in the church parking lot for the annual
blessing of pets to commemorate the Feast of St. Francis
of Assisi, which is October 4.
Psalm 147:9 tells us that God is concerned for all His
creation, including the animals He created. We can take
from Scripture that if God takes care of animals, then so
should we. Many parents introduce a pet into their home
to teach their children responsibility and other positive
qualities, such as unconditional love, forgiveness, and
steady companionship. That’s why pets are taken to
hospitals and nursing homes to interact with people in
need. They help reduce symptoms of anxiety and
depression. We can learn an incredible deal from
animals.
Good St. Francis, patron of animals, you loved all of
God’s creatures. To you they were your brothers and
sisters. Help us to follow your example of treating every
living thing with kindness. Watch over our pets. Keep
them – and their human companions – safe, healthy,
and always in God’s loving care.
With prayerful best wishes,
Fr. John Mahoney