Blessing of the Pets

Shaun, a young poodle, appears enthralled with Fr. Rob's blessing.

On Sunday, October 5th, St. Paul's held its annual Blessing of the Pets as part of our celebration of the Season of Creation and the Feast of St. Francis. On this beautiful afternoon, well over a dozen dogs from the parish and neighborhood gathered with their humans to receive a blessing from Fr. Rob Bacon. In addition, Fr. Rob blessed a handful of pets "in abstentia," represented on cell phone and printed photographs. Here are a few images of the day.

A Prayer for the Blessing of Pets

Blessed are you, Creator God, maker of all living creatures. You called forth fish in the sea, birds in the air and animals on the land. You inspired Saint Francis to call all of them brothers and sisters. We ask you to bless our pets. By the power of your love, let them to live according to your plan. May we always praise you for all creation. Blessed are you, Lord our God, in all your creatures! Amen.