Do you have a furry or scaly friend at home that you adore? Would you like to bring that special one to receive a blessing? Come to the Advocate pond for a service remembering St. Francis, and bring your pet (furry, scaly or slimy) to be blessed.
Blessing of the Animals: Sunday, Oct. 9, at 5 p.m. by the pond
This service remembers Saint Francis, the patron saint of animals. Many stories surround Francis’ great love for animals and the environment. In one account Francis and his companions happened upon a place where birds filled the trees. Francis told his companions, “wait for me while I go to preach to my sisters the birds.” The birds surrounded him, intrigued by the power of his voice, and not one of them flew away. Please note: we will not pray to imbue Whitby with the power to entrance birds!