Bethesda-by-the-Sea in Palm Beach to hold Blessing of the Pets service Oct. 1

The Episcopal Church of Bethesda-by-the-Sea, 141 S. County Road, will have its annual Blessing of the Pets service at 10 a.m. Oct. 1.

The church hosts the event each year in celebration of the Feast of St. Francis, which falls on Oct. 4. St. Francis is the patron saint of animals.

All animals are welcome to be blessed by the Rev. Tim Schenck. Past years have seen many dogs and cats but also chickens, horses and parakeets.

Pet owners may bring a bag of pet food or a pet toy to be donated to local animal shelters.

For more information, call 561-655-4554.