AROOSTOOK COUNTY, Maine — Animal lovers from around the County are invited to flock to have their animal companions blessed outdoors in celebration of Saint Francis of Assisi’s Feast Day, Oct. 4.
Three events are scheduled in Aroostook County, along with 18 other blessings throughout the rest of the state.
Houlton’s St. Mary of the Visitation Church will welcome pets and owners at 1 p.m. outside the church on Saturday, Oct. 3.
Blessings will take place at 1 p.m. on Sunday, Oct. 4, at the Holy Rosary Catholic Church in Caribou and at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Presque Isle.
As prayers are offered, the pets will be gently sprinkled with holy water.
When additional events are added, they will be posted at www.portlanddiocese.org/
Saint Francis of Assisi was known for his love of all of God’s creatures. The Blessing of the Animals remembers Francis’ love by invoking God’s blessing on the animals and thanking God for letting us share the earth. The blessing also recognizes the important place that pets hold in people’s hearts.
