Blessing of Pets: Saturday 7th October

“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 Saint 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.”

On Saturday 7th October, the Family Centre are holding their annual Blessing of Pets ceremony at 11am outside the Family Centre/ The HUB in the grounds of Knock Shrine.

For those of you who are unable to attend the blessing, we invite you to send pictures of your beloved pets to by email to familycentre@knockshrine.ie and their photos will be included in the blessing!

This custom is conducted in remembrance of Saint Francis of Assisi’s love for all creatures. Francis, whose feast day is October 4th, is remembered for his generosity to the poor, his willingness to minister to the lepers, and for his love for animals and nature. He is the Catholic Church’s patron saint of animals and the environment.

All are welcome to come along.