St. Raphael's annual Pet Blessing set for Oct. 4
An obedient pup is blessed by Deacon Tom Senn at last year’s event. Photo by Bill Bine
Hedgehogs, bearded dragons and less-exotic household animals and their families are invited to the 13th Annual Blessing of the Pets on Wednesday, Oct. 4, at 6:30 p.m. on the front lawn of St. Raphael Church in Bay Village.
Individual blessings will be given to each animal. Giveaways from Landmark and Hot Diggity Dog Pet Sitting will be distributed and a garden statue of St. Francis will be given away. The event is free and all are welcome!
The event was first held in 2005 to commemorate the feast of St. Francis of Assisi, patron saint of animals.
St. Raphael pastor, Fr. Tim Gareau, commented, “We welcome all our friends in the surrounding neighborhoods to join with us on this day, to give thanks for all God’s creatures – especially our faithful animal companions – and ask for his continued blessings on our families, our community, and on all living things entrusted to our care.”
Dogs should be on leashes; cats and other pets in carriers or cages. The event will be cancelled if it rains.
St. Raphael is located at 525 Dover Center Road. Parking is behind the church.
Anne Straitiff
A citizen of Bay Village and a parishioner of St. Raphael.