Fr. Frank Russ Blesses Boots Mead
The Blessing of the Animals Each year the Church celebrates the Feast of St. Francis of Assisi on October 4th. Francis is known for his love of and close relationship with nature. He was particularly fond of the animals that inhabit the earth. Legends recount the manner he communicated with them as if he were talking to a person. Over the years it has become commonplace for Christians communities and congregations to observe the blessing of the animals. Today, we celebrated the saint’s feast day by blessing the animals of the staff and residents who were in attendance. Nineteen dogs and one cat waited patiently for one of the priests (Fr. Joseph DiRaddo or I)
The patient McLaren Cat
to bestow a heavenly benediction upon them. The animals were well behaved, and I am happy to report that the fifty people in attendance were well behaved, as well.
Posted by Father Frank Russ, Bishop Gadsden
