'Blessing of the Pets' at St. Raphael is back!

Maeve Stofko and her dog, Tully, took their blessings in 2019 very seriously! Photo by Dan Straitiff

Lions, tigers and bears are still not welcome, but household animals and their families are invited to the 16th Annual Blessing of the Pets on Thursday, Sept. 30, from 6:30–7:00 p.m. on the front lawn of St. Raphael Church in Bay Village.

Individual blessings will be given to each animal. Dog and cat treats and give-aways from 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 missed seeing all our parishioners, neighbors, friends and their pets last year. We welcome everyone near and far to join with us on Sept. 30, 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.”

St. Raphael is located at 525 Dover Center Road. Parking is behind the church.

Please note: Dogs should be on leashes; cats and other pets in carriers or cages. The event will be cancelled if it rains.

Anne Straitiff

A citizen of Bay Village and a parishioner of St. Raphael.

Read More on Community Events
Volume 13, Issue 18, Posted 10:13 AM, 09.21.2021