Blessing of the Animals

Bring your Animal Friends for a Blessing   

Christ Episcopal Church remembers the October death in 1226 of Saint Francis of Assisi through the Blessing of the Animals Sunday afternoon, October 6 at 4:00 PM on the north lawn of the church that sits on the corner of Church and Main Streets in Smithfield. Known for his kindness and close association with animals, stories abound about Francis caring for all living things and God’s creation.

Born Giovanni di Pietro di Bernardonehe in a wealthy family, he became an Italian mystic, poet, and Catholic friar who founded the religious order of the Franciscans. He was inspired to lead a Christian life of poverty, and was said to preach to humans and animals alike.

Bring your animal friends both small and large to be blessed by The Rev. Todd DeLaney, Priest-in-Charge at Christ Church. Pets on leashes, or those in small carriers will be seen on the church lawn, but any large carriers for horses, sheep and the like will be blessed in the church parking lot. All are welcome.

Admission
Donation