Temecula Church Blesses Animals Of All Kinds Saturday

TEMECULA, CA — Each year a small episcopal church in Temecula shows heart for all creatures great and small. St. Thomas of Canterbury Episcopal Church once again hosts its annual Blessing of the Animals event in honor of St. Francis of Assisi at Saturday's open-air service and festival.

The event celebrates the human-animal bond and originates from a Roman Catholic tradition as part of the feast day of St. Francis of Assisi, the patron saint of animals. The Blessing of the Animals takes place at many Episcopal churches, according to organizers.

The Blessing of the Animals is scheduled from 10 a.m. to noon Saturday at the church located on 44651 Avenida de Missiones in Temecula, according to organizers.

In Temecula, Rev. Carole Horton-Howe will lead the blessing for dogs, cats, farm animals, reptiles and even well-loved stuffed animals.

"It's a very fun day for the entire family," a spokesperson for the church wrote on Facebook. All pets are welcome at the event, including stuffed animals, according to staff.

The event is planned with various exhibitions from different pet organizations, a photo booth, a homemade quilt raffle and an introduction to the church’s butterfly garden.

The event is family-oriented, with an art center for the kids, live music and light refreshments.
Guest organizations featured Saturday include Sale Ranch Animal Sanctuary, South Temecula Veterinary Hospital and Pet Hotel, Temecula Creek Vet and more.

St. Thomas of Canterbury church is known for being dog friendly. It’s open to well-behaved dogs in its sanctuary each Sunday.