Animals Are Blessed, Indeed - St. Francis Pet Blessing, Oct. 7, 2007

"One goes more quickly to heaven from a hut than from a palace," according to 12th century St. Francis of Assisi. With the national interest in "Animal or Pet" blessings around Oct. 4th every year, then maybe there might be a push to update his words to, "One goes more quickly to heaven from a dog park than from a palace".

From the happy faces at Central Dog Park on Sunday afternoon, Oct. 7th, you'd think maybe the kingdom of heaven had arrived.

Now beginning its second year in operation, the Central Dog Park began the "St. Francis Pet Blessing" with the unveiling of a statue of this dear Saint. Donated by "Friends" of Central Dog Park, the likeness is meant to remind all people of their humble place as servants and friends to all creatures.

On Sunday afternoon, people of all ages gathered round to enjoy giving thanks for their pets and to receive individual laying on of hands, prayers and blessings from the pastors and some elders of Central Christian Church. Even a few onlookers without pets couldn't help themselves but to come and witness the divine appreciation.

Pastor Norm Stolpe reflected on the bridge between Francis' preaching to people and animals in the Middle Ages; that God's redemption includes all creation. These words of encouragement seemed perfectly normal to all the various and fuzzy ears which came to hear this sunny afternoon.

If you've never been to our annual Pet Blessing, put it on your calendar for next year.

Giotto, Preaching to the Birds. 1295-1300. Fresco. St. Francis, Upper Church, Assisi, Italy.