Animal lovers are invited to bring their pet – or their picture – to a pet blessing at St. Barnabas Anglican Church this weekend.
A pet blessing is part of this Sunday’s regular service at St. Barnabas Anglican Church. It takes place on Sunday, Oct. 1 at 10 a.m. at St. Barnabas Church at 1010 Fifth Ave.
The Reverend Emilie Smith said the church does a pet blessing annually near the feast day of St. Francis, which is on Oct. 4. St. Francis is the patron saint of animals and the environment.
“All beasts are welcome; hopefully they will behave,” she said. “Cats should be in carriers, dogs on leashes. Also a photo of a pet friend is fine — we can bless in absentia.”
Following the service that celebrates animals and all of creation, the church will hold a pancake breakfast in its hall at 11 a.m.
St. Barnabas is also working on plans for a family dance party later in the month.
The Day of the Dead (Dia de los Muertos) family dance is set for Saturday, Oct. 28. Folks are invited to help build an altar to their dearly departed loved ones, starting at 4 p.m.
“Then at 5 p.m. the party gets going,” Smith said. “This is an alcohol-free event, and there will be free snacks, drinks and special Mexican food for purchase. The band Syndicate will be playing, and there are some other musical acts.”
The church is requesting a $20 donation for attending the dance. Tickets don’t need to be purchased in advance.
