45 Pets Are Blessed at Charlestown

CATONSVILLE, MD — Forty -five pets (dogs, cats and even a bunny) were blessed recently at Charlestown retirement community in a ceremony held in front of Our Lady of the Angels Chapel. An assortment of dog breeds — inclusive of English Cocker Spaniel, German Shepherd, Bolognese, Boxer, Bulldog, Maltese Shih Tzu, Pocket Beagle, Schnauzer, and Yorkshire Terrier — were represented.

Father Leo Larrivee officiated at the noontime Blessing of the Pets, an event on Oct. 4 which included the dedication of a new St. Francis of Assisi statue honoring this patron saint of animals. A total of 92 people attended.

There are more than 150 pets who live with their owners at Charlestown. Residents and staff celebrated the well-being of their pets and pet lovers everywhere.

The pets participated in a parade on Fountain Court next to the Chapel. There were contests and other surprises during a festive program emceed by Roy Baum, who hosts a popular pet show that airs on Charlestown's closed-circuit Channel 972.

The Pet Lovers of Charlestown sponsored this event.

Pictured, Judith Kierstead brings Tux (left) and LuLu to be blessed. Photo by Konstantinos Viennas.