What do Solo the chicken, Aussie the cat, and Nora the mouse have in common? All have participated in the annual Blessing of the Animals ceremony at Christ Church.
Continuing a 12-year tradition, Reverend Marilyn Anderson will lead the outdoor Blessing of the Animals on Sunday, October 1 at 4 pm at Christ Church, 184 Cross Highway on the corner of Cross Highway and Black Rock Turnpike.
The ceremony takes place around the Feast Day of Saint Francis. St. Francis, patron saint of animals, is universally known and admired for his love of all living creatures.
The Blessing ceremony imparts God’s blessings to both animals and their humans. We humans are called upon to have hearts of compassion, gentle hands and kindly words for our furry and feathered companions, making us “true friends” to animals. As for our pets or beloved creatures, the ceremony includes the prayer of blessing: “We ask you to bless these animals. May we too see them as our sisters and brothers. May we always praise you for all your beauty in Creation.”
Rev. Anderson has blessed all manner of animals, from horses to goats to cockatoos, guinea pigs and hermit crabs. While cats and dogs are commonly blessed, all pets, farm animals and more – regardless of size or species (as long as safely contained) - are most welcome for this short ceremony. In addition, creatures who have passed “the Rainbow Bridge” may be remembered in prayers of thanksgiving – something that often brings sweet poignancy to the ceremony.
All animal participants will receive a Certificate of Blessing.
- Blessing of the Animals, Christ Church, Sunday, October 1, 4 pm, Rain or Shine
- 184 Cross Highway, Redding, at the corner of Cross Highway and Black Rock Turnpike