FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. – All pets of all kinds are welcome at the annual Blessing of the Animals on Sunday, October 6th 3 P.M – 4 P.M.
The Humane Society of Broward County's Blessing of the Animals is held each year during the week of the Feast of St. Francis, the patron saint of animals.
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The HSBC has been doing the Blessing of the Animals for more than 14 years and it is a time for us to stop and reflect on all the happiness and joy that animals bring to our lives.
The Franciscan Friars of The Parish of Saints Francis & Clare will visit the shelter and perform the Blessing on the east lawn under the tent.
Father Joe and the other Friars will arrive at about 2:45 P.M. and everyone is asked to arrive at this time also, so there is enough time for everyone's pet to be blessed.
The Friars will ten walk through the kennels and bless the animals that are at the shelter as well as the shelter's resident cat Tweety.
The Blessing will be held on the east lawn at the Humane Society.
Pets of all kinds are welcome, in a secure carrier or on a leash.
For more information visit www.humanebroward.com or call 954-989-3977 or Father Joe at 954-731-8173
About Saint Francis of Assisi
Although many saints are associated with particular animals, Saint Francis of Assisi (1182-1226 C.E.) is most closely associated with the popular trend of animal blessings. During or near October 4th, the feast day of this patron saint of animals and the environment, a significant number of animal blessings take place.
St. Francis developed a profound connection with living things through his fascination with nature. His main inspiration came from animals. He viewed animals as living examples of spiritual integrity, blessing them and striving to understand and connect with them. St. Francis is remembered for his love of all creatures, especially birds, and is probably most known for his "Canticle to the Creatures" and "Sermon to the Birds."