Community Corner
Photo Gallery: Blessing of the Animals
A parade of dogs and one cat came for the annual Blessing of the Animals.
ST. PETE BEACH- Pet owners brought their faithful companions Saturday to the annual Blessing of the Animals at St. Alban's Episcopal Church. A blessing of each animal (or its picture) followed prayers and songs celebrating and being thankful for the pets.
The blessing is a tradition in honor of St. Francis of Assisi, who loved animals and ecology. Rev. Stuart Swann wore a brown cloak and blessed each pet in the church's lush, tropical garden with the statue of St. Francis watching.
The pets and people enjoyed the social interaction, which included treats for all. Donations from Saturday's service benefited Pet Pal Animal Shelter in St. Petersburg.