Blessing of the Animals at Alki UCC, St. John the Baptist

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(WSB photo: Alki UCC’s Rev. Diane Darling at “Blessing of the Animals” service in 2009)
Early October means time for the Blessing of the Animals in honor of the feast day of St. Francis of Assisi, patron saint of animals, and the local congregations that have been offering this service in recent years are doing it again this Sunday.

INTERDENOMINATIONAL SERVICE AT ALKI UCC: This Sunday at 10 am, you’re invited to a “Blessing of the Animals” service. The church‘s announcement says, “This year Pastor Diane Darling, Rabbi Zari Weiss, and Rev. Ann Holmes Redding (Christian, Jew, and Episcopal/Muslim) will bless the animals you bring to worship. Dogs on leashes and critters in carriers, please! You also may want to bring a blanket or cushion to sit on.” 6115 SW Hinds.

ST. JOHN THE BAPTIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH: St. John’s says its interim priest Reverend Greg Peters “will be blessing animals at both worship services, 8:00 am and 10:15 am, and also at noon in the West Seattle High School Parking Lot,” which is at 3000 California SW, immediately north of the church.

thegodshavegonecrazy October 4, 2012 (5:29 am)

Even though I’m agnostic, I definitely believe in Dog. (This is a lovely, heartwarming tradition, thanks to those who organize, administer and participate.)
:)

Vanessa October 4, 2012 (8:49 am)

It always amazes me that a church full of people with their dogs, cats, rabbits, birds, etc, etc, seem to all get along and there is no snarling and growling going on. Way to go, God. !

westcoastdeb October 4, 2012 (10:12 am)

The Gods- I am 100% with you on that. Agnostic, but would be taking my pet family to this were I in state. One can never have too much LOVE, and I believe that is what this is all about.