(Lafayette, LA) If you live in Lafayette or the surrounding areas of Acadiana and love pets, you likely know about the blessing of pets that happens on or around the Feast of St. Francis of Assisi.
St. Francis of Assisi Left Luxury to Serve People
St. Francis of Assisi left his wealthy life to become a priest and serve the people of Italy. According to Franciscan Media, the Feast of St. Francis of Assisi is October 4. Also, Saint Pats says St. Francis is known for ministering to lepers and for his deep love of animals and nature. He is the patron saint of animals and the environment.
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St. Francis of Assisi Loved All Creatures
According to Angelo Stagnaro in U.S. Catholic,
For St. Francis, every creature—that is, everything that God created—was sacred. The sun, the moon, birds, humans, butterflies, and even rabid wolves were a part of God’s plan and a sign of God’s love.
That’s a beautiful testament to his faith. Many denominations participate in the Blessing of the Pets. According to Monastery Icons, St. Francis even performed miracles, including one involving a town and a wolf.
The Prayer for the Blessing of the Pets
There is even a prayer that is said for the Blessing of the Pets:…