St. Francis Day Blessing of Animals

Sunday, Oct. 5th, 3:00 p.m.

All are welcome to celebrate the feast of St. Francis, Assisi, patron saint of animals. St. Monica Catholic Community offers this traditional Franciscan Blessing for a third year on Sunday, October 5th, beginning at 3 PM. The event takes place in the park, across from the Church, at the corner of Lincoln and California Avenue, one block north of Wilshire Boulevard.

The Blessing includes music from St. Monica's Music Ministry, reflections on the life of St. Francis, a general blessing, and individual blessings for everyone who brings a pet. There will also be a Pet Book of Memory to record the names of the pets who were our companions, but are no longer with us. It is a gesture of thankfulness for the memory of joy they brought.

All animals at the event will be blessed, though City regulations state that beasts of burden are not allowed in public parks -- so your cow an ox must remain at home! All usual city regulations will be followed regarding control and clean up for our furry friends.

All who come will receive this year's commemorative St. Francis Day Blessing card, in addition to stories and prayers associated with the life of St. Francis, Assisi.

This traditional event commemorates the deep and abiding love for all of creation that defined the 13 Century life of Francis. Founder of the Franciscan Order, St. Francis became known as a peacemaker among factions in Assisi, between sultans, kings, and bishops – as well as wild animals. The Saint is often pictured with animals, for he held a radical belief for the time – that animals, as part of God’s creation – are worthy of our respect.

All are welcome at this event, bring your two and four-legged friends to Reed Park for a celebration of God's creatures.

Contact

Lloyd Fredericks
Phone: (310) 493-0933
lrfmonkjg@yahoo.com