Photos & Video: ‘Blessing of Animals’ Ceremony

The Anglican Parish of St George hosted its first Blessing of Animals at the Unfinished Church in St. George’s today [Oct 5], with pet owners making their way to the afternoon ceremony, which saw people, dogs, horses and at least one cat in attendance.

The service was officiated by the Rev’d W David Raths and the Rev’d John Stow and included music by Val Sherwood, singing of hymns, and all the animals were individually blessed, with the owners all given a certificate.

The ceremony follows a tradition that exists worldwide, as in the beginning of October each year, people all over the world celebrate the feast day of the Patron Saint of Animals, Saint Francis of Assisi, with animals are led to churches for a special ceremony called the “Blessing of the Animals.”

26-minute video of the ceremony and animal blessing:

Click to enlarge photos:

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