This is a printer-friendly version of an article from Zip06.com.

10/01/2020 12:01 AM

Blessings of All Creatures Great and Small This Weekend


Rev. Todd Vetter of First Congregational Church, Madison at a past ceremony blessing the animals. Photo courtesy of Kathleen Bidney Singewald

Several Blessing of the Animal ceremonies will be offered this weekend.

At Christ and The Epiphany Church, 39 Park Place (on the Green), East Haven, will host a blessing of the animals on Sunday, Oct. 4 from 1 to 3 p.m. Donations of canned and dry pet food, treats, toys, and bedding will be accepted and given to the East Haven Animal Shelter. Rev. Andrew G. Osmun will offer a special blessing for pets in remembrance of St. Francis of Assisi. Well-behaved dogs on leashes, cats in carriers, and other pets (or their photos) are welcome. More information is available by calling 203-467-2310.

At First Congregational Church, 26 Meetinghouse Lane, Madison, Rev. Todd Vetter and the Rev. Sara Vetter will bless all of God’s creatures, living or stuffed, who walk, run, swim, fly, or crawl on Sunday, Oct. 4 at 5 p.m. Those who would like to come do not have to be a member of the church to join in on the church lawn for this event. The church asks that everyone wear a mask and maintain appropriate social distance. Animals will be invited to come up one at a time, with their humans, for a blessing.

At Saint Ann’s Parish, 82 Shore Road, Old Lyme, a blessing of all creatures great and small will take place Sunday, Oct. 4 at 1 p.m. in commemoration of the Feast of St. Francis of Assisi. The Rev. Dr. Anita L. Schell will bless all of the pets present: dogs, cats, birds, fish, and others. Participants may bring a photo of the pets if it is difficult for the pets to attend the blessing. There will also be an observation of extinct species as well as recognition of endangered species around the world. All pets should be leashed, tethered, or caged for everyone’s safety and convenience. All pet owners and guests should wear a mask and respect social distancing. A pet treat, as allowed, will follow the service for each of the blessed animals.

Astrid Swanson, Rev. Andrew C. Osmun, and Oslo at a past ceremony at Christ and the Ephipany Church in East Haven. Photo courtesy of Christ and the Epiphany Church