Lions and tigers and bears -- well, maybe not! But dogs, cats, guinea pigs (and their human companions) all come out for St. Mark's Blessing of the Animals ceremony .

“The Blessing of Animals is a long-standing tradition in the Christian Church, performed in early October in conjunction with the Feast Day of St. Francis of Assisi,” explained The Rev. Eileen Weglarz, who led the blessing service. “This delightful service offered animal lovers of all ages the opportunity to give thanks for the beauty of creation.  Our pets are an important and life enriching part of creation that God has entrusted to our love and care.”

Animals of every kind are invited to participate in the ceremony at St. Mark’s. Participants are also welcomed to bring pet photos and mementos to celebrate and remember the lives of their animal friends who have died.  The service includes a procession of the animals and a prayer of blessing for each individual pet that attended.