Blessing of the Animals

Over 40 people attended the annual Blessing of the Animals at St. Francis de Sales Roman Catholic Church on East 96th Street on Sunday, October 6. Father Tony began the blessing with a Franciscan prayer, in which he blessed both pet owners and pets, stating that they are both a blessing to each other's lives and that there is a place in heaven for all God's creatures. The blessing was held on the steps of the church, where pet owners brought dogs of all sizes, and even a few cats.