Blessing of the Animals at St. Barnabas Anglican Church this Sunday

People and pets gathering for the Blessing of the Animals
Photo by Barbara Kinney

The annual Blessing of the Animals at St. Barnabas Anglican Church in Shoreline will be held immediately following the 10:30 a.m. service – about noon – this Sunday, Oct. 7.

Shoreline-area residents are invited to bring their pets to St. Barnabas for a blessing, or to have their pets at home prayed for by name.

Cats and other small animals should be in carriers and dogs on leash.

Fr. Crain
Photo by Barbara Kinney

This special event is held on the Sunday on or near the Feast of St. Francis of Assisi – the patron saint of animals – which is Oct. 4.

St. Francis is identified as a humble servant of Christ who took a vow of poverty and is known for his great love and concern for all of God’s creatures.

“It is fitting that on his feast day we would give God thanks for the blessings of His creation,” said Fr. Harley Crain, rector. 

“This is a time when we can pray for the care and safety of God’s creatures, who are a gift from God. We recognize the blessings that our animals bring to us and pray for God’s care over His creatures.”

The day is a time to celebrate not only our pets but also “the Lord’s magnificent handiwork,” Fr. Crain added.

St. Barnabas Anglican Church is located at 2340 N. 155th St. For more information, please call Fr. Crain at 206-365-6565.