Pets And Their Owners Receive Blessings
Oskaloosa, Iowa – Our pets are a major part of our lives, and come with a great responsibility.
Some who enjoy and see their pets as a blessing in their lives took an opportunity to have their pets blessed at a ceremony held at Edmundson Park on Sunday.
Members of the St. James Episcopal Church, in conjunction with Stephen Memorial Animal Shelter, helped to bring back a tradition that had been a part of the Oskaloosa community until 10 years ago.
Lorraine Sinnott helped to organize Sunday’s service in honor of St. Francis of Assisi, who was reported to have been able to communicate with animals and felt at one with all creation.
“We are going to try and do it every year again,” said Sinnott. Sinnott sees the event as God’s blessing upon their animal friends.
The Blessing of the Animals is “conducted in remembrance of St. Francis of Assisi’s love for all creatures” says americancatholic.org, who is a part of the national day and event.