Ask Barney the benefits of blessing your pet. It always brings a smile to his face.

Our annual blessing of the animals will be held on Sunday October 6, 2013. This event is always recognized on or around the feast of St. Francis of Assisi (Friar 1226). A brief liturgy recognizes the great gift that God has given us in our animal companions. All pets are prayed over for individual needs or concerns. Each pet will be blessed. Weather permitting the service will be held on the west side of the church. For inclement weather we will conduct the service in the entry way (narthex).

We have special guests joining us this year. Three teams from “Reading with Rover” will join us for the mission moment during the 10:30am service. Proceeds from the thank offering bowl will be dedicated to this remarkable program. Teams of canine listeners and human partners help increase reading comprehension skills. Reading with Rover says about themselves:  Our Mission: To inspire children to discover the joy of reading while developing literacy skills and confidence in a safe environment using Reading With Rover Dogs. To learn more about “Reading with Rover” go to their webpage:  http://www.readingwithrover.org/