Blessing of the Animals

The First Congregational Church of Shrewsbury will be hosting its 4th Annual Blessing of the Animals event on Saturday, October 3, 2026 from 12:00 pm - 3:00 pm on the Shrewsbury Town Common. This event is free and open to the public. All well-behaved pets are invited to bring their people. A blessing ceremony will take place promptly at noon, followed by all community pets being individually blessed by Pastor Holly MillerShank. Photo and stuffed animal pet representations are welcome. Each blessed pet will receive a special blessing tag.  Also in attendance will be our special rescue guests, the Worcester Animal Rescue League, Handsome Dan’s Rescue and Buddy Dog who will be sharing information about their rescues, services and adoption opportunities. This year, attendees are encouraged to bring a pet food donation to benefit the Central Mass Pet Pantry in Shrewsbury, which will also be in attendance. CMPP’s mission is to provide pet food and supplies to individuals and families in Central Massachusetts who are struggling to afford them, ensuring that pets can remain with their owners and don’t have to be surrendered due to financial hardship. The church is also sponsoring FREE pony rides provided by Ridge Valley Stables from 12:30-2:30 pm. Uhlman’s Ice Cream Truck will be on hand with treats for sale and Chiampa Funeral Home will offer information about pet cremation services. For a $5 donation participants may paint and take home a pet rock. In the event of rain, an abbreviated version of this event that will include a blessing service only will be held on Saturday, October 10, 2026 at 12:00 pm.