Blessing of the Animals October 2, 2016

We gathered with our animal friends (family) on a beautiful Sunday (Oct 2) afternoon for a blessing of the animals in honor and respect for St. Francis.  Each loved pet received a blessing from Father Riley and a sprinkle of Holy Water...when was the last time you received Holy Water?  Our beloved pets may be one up on us.  Cecil and Vickie led us in singing "All Creatures Great and Small".

St. Francis of Assisi abandoned a life of luxury for a life devoted to Christianity after reportedly hearing the voice of God, who commanded him to rebuild the Christian church and live in poverty. He is the patron saint for ecologists.  For more information, go to:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Francis_of_Assisi

Collect for St. Francis 

Most high, omnipotent good Lord, grant your people grace to renounce gladly the vanities of this world; that, following the way of blessed Francis, we may for love of you delight in your whole creation with perfectness of joy.  O God, you have made us and all living things. You are even more wonderful than what you have made. We thank you for giving us these pets who bring us joy.  As you take care of us, so also we ask your help that we might take care of those who trust us to look after them.  By doing this, we share in your own love for all creation. We ask this in  Jesus' name. Amen.