Blessing of the Pets at Local Church

Today local pet owners gathered with their furry friends at St. James Episcopal Church for a blessing of the pets ceremony.

To honor the great St. Francis of Assisi and how he was loved by everyone, even animals, Reverend Rob Willmann gathered some of his parishioners and friends that have animals to bless them and ask that God watch over them and protect them. Even the animal shelter attended with some of their pets that are up for adoption.

“Francis was known as a wonderful peace maker, a very holy person in the church. The lord Jesus appeared to him and said ‘Francis, I want you to rebuild my church’ and he thought that meant go and fix up the structure he was in that was falling apart but he later realized that Jesus wanted him to rebuild the souls and the hearts of the people. So according to history, he was beloved by everybody including the animals” said Father Willmann.

This has been a tradition every year around the Feast Day of St. Francis and Father Willmann says he just loves doing it… He even joked about how his two black cats were ‘too wild’ to attend the ceremony today.

“I love to bring people together to honor holy people in the church and remind us of how the saving power of Jesus brings us to glory in this life and glory in the next. So, i’m happy to do it” he said.

Cider, donuts, and animal treats followed the ceremony, there was a little something for everyone.