In celebration of the Feast of Saint Francis of Assisi, All Saints will offer our annual Blessing of the Animals on Sunday, October 4, at 1:00 p.m. in the Labyrinth. We will use the gazebo if the weather is inclement.

Saint Francis is remembered for his joyful recognition that all creation belongs to God and that our lives are bound together with the creatures with whom we share this earth. Each year, the Blessing of the Animals gives us an opportunity to give thanks for the pets and other animals who bring companionship, delight, comfort, and sometimes a little holy chaos into our lives.

Bring your dogs, cats, and other animal companions, or a picture, for a brief outdoor service and individual blessing. For everyone’s safety, please keep animals appropriately leashed or otherwise secured.

This year, we are also inviting everyone who attends to bring a donation of pet food, which will be distributed through the Beach Food Pantry. For families facing financial hardship, caring for a beloved pet can become one more difficult expense. By collecting pet food, we can help our neighbors care for the animals who are part of their families too.

So bring your pets, bring some pet food to share, and join us in giving thanks for the goodness of God revealed in all creation.

All creatures great and small are welcome.