If you happened to be at the Trinity-St. Paul’s Centre for Faith, Justice and the Arts this past Sunday, Oct. 6, you would have found the pews full of people replaced with a gaggle of pointy eared, furry friends, there for the annual Blessing of the Animals.
The Blessing of the Animals is celebrated each year on the feast day of St. Francis of Assisi, who was a benefactor for all animals. Christians worldwide celebrate the feast of St. Francis with a blessing of animals and prayers for creation.
“St. Francis is a classic saint whose ministry is really marked by his love for animals,” said Rev. Dr. Cheri DiNovo, when asked about the significance of the blessing.
In remarks made during the service, Rev. Dr. DiNovo emphasized the ancient relationship between humans and other animals, especially dogs. But what are the biblical connections between these two? What do religious texts have to say about it?
“These are animals that have been with us since the very beginning and predate the bible by a long way. We were created, as heard in Genesis, the last, not the first. Humans came last. Humans came to look after the other creations, so I think that’s a very important spiritual lesson. That’s our purpose, to look after what has been given to us,” said Rev. Dr. DiNovo.
Following the words of welcome from Rev. Dr. DiNovo and a song from the choir and music director Deborah Park, called The Creatures We Love, the usual communion had an additional feature. Owners lined up with their pets to receive their blessings. Furry friends that couldn’t make it were represented by stuffed animals, pictures, prints on shirts, and other symbols that were blessed in their stead. Treats and certificates of blessing were handed out.
Rev. Dr. DiNovo tells me why this blessing is important and how it celebrates those who we often forget to celebrate: “They are also members of our family. They are beloved, and when we lose them, it causes incredible sorrow and heartache. I think we don’t recognize that, and it’s good to have a time to recognize how important they are.”
But how do pet owners feel about the blessing?
When asked about what the Blessing of the Animals meant to her, owner of cat Peanut-Marie-Crump had much to say: “The idea that every creation is special and important on this earth and that all creatures are equal and equally important. She’s an older girl now.” Glancing at Peanut-Marie-Crump she continued: “So we aren’t active in any religious community but I just thought lets go and get blessed and see everyone else in the community and have a nice morning.”
It seems that even those who are not particularly religious still have deep appreciation for the commemoration of animals that the blessing brings.
“The blessing is a recognition that we’re guardians for all of our pets. This is a blessing of their lives and the care that we are stewards for,” said Ashwyn, owner of dog Scarlett, who is two, and Olive, who is nine.
—Rose Haberer/Gleaner News