What did St Francis of Assisi say about animals?
St. Francis of Assisi, patron saint of animals and environment could be viewed as the original Earth Day advocate. Francis cared for the poor and sick, he preached sermons to animals and praised all creatures as brothers and sisters under God.
What Is a Blessing of the Animals service?
It is an all-day event with vendors, performers, and a procession where participants bring their animals to be blessed by religious authorities and others.
What day is the blessing of the animals?
October 4
Each year on October 4, followers around the world salute his legacy with “blessing of the animals” services and events. These fun-filled occasions welcome all creatures great and small to join in prayer, song, bible readings and more in honor of our animal friends.
Why do Episcopalians bless animals?
For Episcopalians, he blesses a pet in the name of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit and wishes for the person and animal to enjoy life together and with their creator. For people from different faith traditions, the blessing is made “in the name of god who created you” rather than invoking the Trinity.
Can you bless a pet?
The blessing of animals is encouraged by many churches in many states, but not all, so you will have to check with your local church to find out where the nearest animal blessing will be held. Blessings may occur either inside or outside, depending on the individual church and space available.
Can you bless a dog?
Francis of Assisi, and to commemorate the patron saint of animals and the environment a number of local churches are blessing household pets from cats and dogs to goldfish and guinea pigs. If you’re curious, this is the standard blessing: “Blessed are you, Lord God, maker of all living creatures.
How do you bless your pet?
If you are looking of a way to bless your dog on Oct 4, here are some great ideas.
- #1 – Attend a Blessing. Many places all over the world hold annual “blessings of the animals” events.
- #2 – St. Francis ID Tag.
- #3 – Light a Candle.
- #4 – Say a Prayer.
- #5 – Spend Some Time With Them.
Is there a prayer for animals?
Dearest God, Heavenly Father maker of all living creatures, we ask you to bless (pet’s name), who brings so much joy into our lives. By the power of Your love, enable him/her to live according to your plan. May we always praise You for all Your beauty in creation. Blessed are You, God, in all Your creatures!
Where can I find blessing of pets liturgy?
Blessing of Pets liturgy put together by Rev. Bob Morrison, St. James Episcopal Church, Lincoln, OR, and Rev. Richard Fairchild, St. Andrew’s United Church, Golden, BC. Blessing Service as used at Madison Christian Community, a shared UCC and ELCA congregation (in printable bulletin format).
What does the blessing of the animals mean?
Blessing of the Animals. The blessing of each animal, by name, means that health, healing and life are being mediated from God for the benefit of the animal in its relationship with its human partners. Be careful not to reinforce the separation of human animals and other animals by this blessing.
Why do people bring their pets to church?
People engage with the church in a new way because they’re bringing their pets to church. Pets are members of our families and this is a special and unique way to celebrate the love of family. The church is connecting to people in a unique way.
Where to celebrate the blessing of the creation?
As we recognize our mutual interdependence with God’s creatures, the Church’s witness of stewardship of creation is strengthened. It is also a service with special appeal to children. The Blessing is best celebrated during daylight in the outdoors—in the churchyard or in a park.