Blessing of the Animals in Scottsdale to celebrate St. Francis tradition

Four-legged — and feathered — members of the family are invited to Black Mountain United Church of Christ for a Blessing of the Animals service at 10 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 3, at 30600 N. Scottsdale Road, in Scottsdale.

The event is open to everyone, and each animal will receive an individual blessing, a treat, and an opportunity for a photo. Cider, doughnuts, and water also will be provided, and attendees are asked to properly leash their animals.

The service is being held in celebration of the Feast of St. Francis of Assisi, traditionally observed Oct. 4. Born in Italy around 1181 or 1182, Francis became known for a spirituality that regarded the natural world as part of God’s creation and animals as fellow creatures worthy of care. He died in 1226 and was canonized two years later.

That association eventually inspired the tradition of churches holding animal blessings around Francis’ feast day, with pets ranging from dogs and cats to birds and other animals brought to receive a blessing.

Call 480-575-1801 or visit bmucc.org for more information.