Rev. Canon Stephen Carpenter (on right with wife Fran and the family dog) welcomes pets and people of all faiths to the Annual Blessing of the Animals Thursday, October 4, at 6 p.m. at St. Mary’s Episcopal Church in Napa. Fr. Carpenter—aided by two other parish priests on hand to celebrate the Feast day of St. Francis of Assissi – will bless all creatures great and small in the courtyard of the church at 1917 Third Street. Human participants are asked to bring cats, rodents and reptiles in cages and dogs and larger animals on leashes or harnesses. Or bring a photo to be blessed. Dog and people cookies and coffee will also be offered at a reception following the brief ceremony. The event is open to all, free of charge.
