St. Francis of Assisi is the patron saint of animals due to his love and care of animals during his lifetime. St. Francis was born in 1181 or 1182 and died on October 3rd, 1226. To honor and remember St. Francis, many churches offer a blessing for animals during October to commemorate his life’s work. There are numerous stories and legends regarding St. Francis’s love for animals including a story about his death. Legend has it that St. Francis on his deathbed thanked his donkey for carrying and helping him throughout his life, and his donkey wept.
Pets are an important part of many people’s lives and Jerome is widely known to be a pet-friendly community. Nowhere is this dedication more evident than at the Jerome Humane Society with the tireless work of Dr. Virginia Kennaway and her staff of volunteers. Haven United Methodist would like to offer a small token of appreciation to the pet lovers in our congregation and community by providing a blessing of the animals.
Ceremonies occur in October following our Sunday Service. See our Calendar or our Church Blog for more information about the date and time. All animals are welcome and will receive a blessing, a medallion and certificate of blessing. Light refreshments will be provided.