Bless the Beasts and the Children
Bless the beasts and the children,
For in this world they have no voice,
They have no choice--Bless the Beasts and the Children by Barry De Vorzon
The Blessing of the Animals is the one day a year where your pet gets to skip the vet and head straight to the altar for a little divine intervention. Originating from the love St. Francis of Assisi had for animals, this tradition lets Fido and Fluffy feel extra holy while they get a special prayer for good health (and maybe fewer vet bills). It's like a spiritual spa day—except your dog is trying to lick the priest, your cat is plotting an escape, and someone’s goat just ate part of the hymn sheet. It’s a heartwarming mix of chaos and reverence, where we remind our furry friends that, yes, they’re not just good boys and girls—they’re blessed ones!
The Blessing of the Animals is a tradition where pets and animals are brought to be blessed by clergy, typically at a church or community event. This practice is often associated with the feast day of St. Francis of Assisi, which is celebrated on October 4th. St. Francis is known as the patron saint of animals and the environment, and he had a deep love and respect for all creatures.
This observance has grown beyond just churches and is often held in parks or public spaces, making it a fun and meaningful community event for animal lovers. It’s a way to honor the bond between humans and their pets and recognize animals as valued creatures in the world.