Blessing of animals to be held Saturday at St. Francis Episcopa
By News-Argus Staff
Published in News on September 28, 2005 1:45 PM
The annual Blessing of the Animals will be held at St. Francis Episcopal Church on Saturday, Oct. 1, the Saturday closest to the feast day of St. Francis of Assisi, patron saint of animals.
Anyone in the community is invited to take pets, large and small, to be blessed by the Rev. Albert Vannorsdall at 10 a.m.
At that time, the church will also collect donations of pet supplies to be taken to the Gulf Coast where many thousands of animals have been left homeless.
Following is a list of items which are particularly needed at the shelters: pet bowls, collars (all sizes), leashes (all sizes), animal crates, pet carriers, bath towels, and washcloths. Either new or used items are acceptable.
Cash donations will also be accepted to purchase needed supplies for the shelter upon arrival. Checks may be made payable to St. Francis Episcopal Church, noted "for pet supplies."
A press release from St. Francis said there is less need for pet food since the large pet food companies have donated truck loads of food, but any donations will be accepted and used.
The church is located at 503 Forest Hill Drive. If it is raining, the blessing will be held on Saturday, Oct. 15.