SOUTHAMPTON CHURCH GOES TO THE DOGS WITH A BLESSING SERVICE

"Getting to know you” … Lewis and Molly were dressed for the weather

Rev. Ann Veyvara-Divinski carried out a special ‘Blessings of the Animals’ at St. Paul’s Anglican Church in Southampton last Sunday.

Thelma Kennedy’s Bailey snuggled up
 to Rev. Ann

“Saint Francis of Assisi is the patron saint of animals,” explained Veyvara-Divinski. “It is an opportunity to demonstrate our love and appreciation of our furry, feathered or fin friends who are our companions and to recognize the human-animal bond that exists.”

In October, Christians worldwide celebrate the Feast of Saint Francis with a blessing of animals and prayers for creation that goes back to ancient times. St. Francis is the patron of Animals, Merchants & Ecology and is also considered the all-inclusive patron saint against dying alone; patron saint against fire; patron saint of animal welfare societies; patron saint of animals, patron saint of the environment and many others.

(With thanks to Sandy Lindsay)