Blessing of the Animals

Bring any and all of your pets to Trinity’s annual Blessing of the Animals service on Sunday, Oct. 14 at 5 p.m. The Rev. Sahra Harding leads the service. Following the service, we’ll have treats for all (people and pets). We use this day to celebrate all of creation through the prayers of St. Francis of Assisi (1181–1226), historically regarded as the patron saint of animals because of his deep affinity with nature. Born Giovanni Francesco di Bernardone, this wealthy aristocrat desired a simpler life. Francis is known best for his preaching to birds and taming of wolves. Francis was made a saint in 1228 and the Franciscan holy order he established is still active today. Contact Ginger Bitikofer (gbitikofer@dohio.org or 216-774-0407) with any questions on the service.