Many churches in the United States celebrate the Feast of St Francis of Assisi on October 4 each year. The feast commemorates the life of St Francis, who was born in the 12th century and is the Catholic Church’s patron saint of animals and the environment. It is a popular day for pets to be “blessed”. We observed the Blessing of the Pets on Sunday afternoon, October 7, in our Prayer Garden behind the church. Deacon William Montano led the event for about 12 pet owners and their pets including several dogs and about 5 cats. Thanks to Deacon Willy for his help and to all the pets and pet owners who came out for this special blessing.