“All creatures of our God and King, lift up your voice and with us sing!  Alleluia! Alleluia!”

Thanks to all the parishioners and visitors who brought their pets last weekend for the annual Blessing of the Animals. The church parking lot was full of St. Francis of Assisi’s four-legged brothers and sisters, from Lucky, the pony who attends every year, to the 14 doggies large and small, to the 2 cats, not to mention their human companions who love and are loved by their pets!

The Lord God formed  out of the ground various wild animals and various birds of the air.

Dear Parishioners and Visitors,

Following the 10:00 A.M. Mass on Sunday, October 5, 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 Saturday, 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