Verona's First Presbyterian to Bless Animals in Special Service

The First Presbyterian Church of Verona remembers our four-legged friends at a special service taking place Sunday, Aug. 11.

The tradition of blessing animals started with St. Francis of Assisi, the peace-minded scriptural figure known for his love of animals. That practice continues at churches around the world. Many occur within Franciscan faith communities, but many move beyond that, with First Presbyterian serving as a prime example. 

At the service, congregants will bring their pets to receive a special clerical blessing similar to that used by Franciscans:

“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 call all of them his brothers and sisters. We ask you to bless this pet. By the power of your love, enable it 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.”
The First Presbyterian Church of Verona will hold its Blessing of the Animals during its Aug. 11 worship service at 10:15 a.m. The church is located at 10 Fairview Ave.