Please join us on Saturday, October 4th in the McDougall Parking lot for the Blessing of the Animals on the feast day of St. Francis. 

Feel free to drop by anytime between 11 - 3 pm, pet treats will be provided. 

All creatures are welcome (even cherished stuffies!).  

We encourage any smaller creatures to be in their pet carriers and dogs to be leashed. 

We will also be accepting donations for the Acadia Pantry (on-perishable items and pet food) to help our furry friends and their humans in the community.

This is happening on the same day as our Fall Artisan Market so make sure you stick around and check it out. There are a few pet vendors, bid on some pet merchandise at our silent auction and be sure to get some doggie treats at our bistro.

Who is St. Francis of Assisi

St. Francis of Assisi was born in the 12th century, lived in Italy, and founded the men’s Order of Friars Minor, the women’s Order of St. Clare, and the Third Order of Saint Francis for men and women not able to live the lives of itinerant preachers. Francis is one of the most venerated religious figures in history.

He is remembered for his generosity to the poor, his willingness to minister to the lepers, and for his love for animals and nature. He is the Catholic Church’s patron saint of animals and the environment.

The Blessing of Animals

Many people bring their pets to the church to be blessed on St. Francis’ feast day because of his love for animals as expressed in his Canticle of Creatures.