All Saints Episcopal Church of the North Shore is delighted to introduce The Rev. Ian J. Hamilton, newly called as Pastor, who begins his ministry with us in the most heartwarming way — by presiding over the beloved North Shore Blessing of the Animals.
This joyful 23‑year community tradition takes place Saturday, October 3 from 1 to 3 PM on the front steps of All Saints, directly across from Danvers Town Hall, where neighbors, families, and their animal companions gather each year to honor the gentle spirit of St. Francis and to celebrate the creatures who share our lives. The event is rain or shine.
The Blessing of the Animals is free and open to all, welcoming every faith and no faith.
Whether you bring pets, photographs, collars, urns, children clutching favorite stuffies, or simply yourselves, you are warmly invited to greet our new pastor and share in an afternoon of gratitude, blessing, and connection.
For everyone’s comfort and safety, please bring pets leashed or in a carrier.
For animals unable to join us — because of illness, distance, or because they now walk in our hearts — prayer papers will be available to honor them.
Our animal companions bless us every day. On this day, we bless them in return.