Pets Flock To Woods Church For Annual Animal Blessing

At Woods Memorial Presbyterian Church, the Noah’s Ark Ministry hosts an annual Blessing of the Animals event and sends loss-of-pet condolence cards.

“Our ministry is here to support pet owners with prayers and condolences,” said Cheryl Query, Noah’s Ark Ministry coordinator. “We understand how important pets are in lives of our members.”

On October 3 at 1:00pm, pet owners are invited to bring their leashed or caged animals for a reading of prayers and offering of blessing at the church. Pets can take home a thoughtful treat bag, which includes a certificate of blessing.

The tradition of blessing animals began nearly 800 years ago by the Catholic canonized St. Francis of Assisi. St. Francis believed that humans were but one of an infinite number of God’s creations, and all are blessings in his eyes. As a result, St. Francis is the patron saint of animals and the environment. In the early 13th century, St. Francis of Assisi found the Franciscan Roman Catholic religious order of consecrated life.

St. Francis died Oct. 4, 1226, and soon after was canonized by Pope Gregory IX. Christians honor St. Francis of Assisi on October 4, and Catholics recognize October 4 as the feast day of St. Francis. The tradition of blessing animals occurs on October 4 around the world.

Query said that dogs and cats are the most common pets to attend the blessing; however, turtles, frogs, ferrets, rabbits, exotic birds, lizards, farm animals, fish or even spiders may flock to the ceremony. She reminds all pet owners to always have control of their pet and to bring the proper waste bags in case they are needed. Pets that are nervous in crowds should stay home, and owners may request a virtual blessing.

Virtual blessings, which were developed last year within coronavirus restrictions, will also be offered. Pet owners should send a photo of their pet to noahsark@woodschurch.org, along with a physical mailing address to which the certificate of blessing should be sent.

Blessing of animals to commemorate the feast of St. Francis is celebrated at many Catholic or Protestant churches. Contact your place of worship to inquire about this tradition, or feel welcome to bring your pet to Woods Memorial Church on Saturday, October 3, at 1:00pm.

At the time of this printing, Woods is not requiring pet owners to wear a mask, however, that may change if Anne Arundel County COVID guidelines are updated. This is an in-person event (no drive-thru blessings).