5:30pm, Friday 14th October at St Joseph’s Church

Many people bring their pets to church to be blessed on or around the feast of St Francis of Assisi (4th October). St Francis had a beautiful rapport with animals and he expressed his love for them in his Canticle of Creatures.

If you are unable to join us on Friday, you can always pray for and bless your pets and animals at home. A verbal blessing, with or without a sprinkling of holy water, can be offered in your backyard, garden or anywhere inside your home.

The following Pet Blessing can be used:

Blessed are you, Lord God, maker of all living creatures. You called forth fish in the sea, birds in the air, and animals on the land. You inspired St Francis to identify them as our brothers and sisters. We ask you to bless this pet, N. By the power of your love, enable him/her to live according to your plan. May we always praise you for all your beauty in creation. Blessed are you, Lord our God, in all your creatures! Amen.