A pet blessing on the feast of St. Francis

Reverend Andrew Koterba read a biblical account about creation and said a special prayer for sick animals, followed by another prayer asking God to protect all neighborhood pets.

According to the Catholic Church, St. Francis of Assisi is the patron saint of animals and ecology. It is said that he could communicate with animals.

In one story recorded by Thomas of Celano during the 13th Century, St. Francis and his companions were traveling through the Spoleto Valley when he suddenly spotted many birds. There were doves, crows and more. Swept up in the moment, Francis left his friends in the road and ran after the birds. He greeted them and expected them to scurry off, but they did not move.

Filled with awe, he asked the birds if they would stay awhile. He said, “My brother and sister birds, you should praise your creator and always love him: He gave you feathers for clothes, wings to fly and all other things that you need. It is God who made you noble among all creatures, making your home in thin, pure air. Without sowing or reaping, you receive God’s guidance and protection.”

At this, the birds began to spread their wings, stretch their necks and gaze at Francis, rejoicing and praising God in a wonderful way according to their nature. Francis then walked right through the middle of them, turned around and came back, touching their heads and bodies with his tunic. Then he blessed them with the sign of the cross.