Diocese celebrates Blessing of the Animals

In honor of the Feast of St. Francis of Assisi, Oct. 4, parishes and Catholic schools throughout the diocese offered the beloved Blessing of the Animals. This is a Catholic tradition in honor of St. Francis of Assisi, patron saint of Animals, which shows that all of God’s creatures are cherished and beloved. The companionship that St. Francis showed to all creatures in God’s kingdom is reflected in the love that many Catholics have for their pets. So, to mark the Feast Day of St. Francis, parishioners were invited to bring their pets to their church for a special blessing. Pictured is the Blessing of the Animals at St. Catherine of Alexandria Church, Riverside, on Oct. 3.