Dogs, cats, birds, fish, snakes and all sorts of family pets are invited to join the Rev. Michael Dunn and the St. Francis of Assisi parish in Weston on Saturday, Oct. 2, and Sunday, Oct. 3, for the annual celebration of the Feast of St. Francis.
In honor of the patron saint's feast day Monday, there will be a blessing of the animals' ceremony for all pets at noon Saturday. Dunn will bless the pets with holy water while saying a prayer.
"The theory and meaning behind it is St. Francis is known in the Catholic Church as the patron saint of animals and had a special love for animals and all of God's creations. And so we encourage everyone to bring every and any kind of pet," said Dunn, who added the ceremony is open to everyone, not just parishioners.
On Sunday, a Mass will be celebrated at 11 a.m. The winner of the St. Francis of Assisi Award for service will be named. A parish picnic will follow the Mass, with food, music, an inflatable obstacle course, a rock-climbing tower and other activities. Admission for the activities and unlimited food and drinks is $10 per adult or $25 per family.
Throughout the weekend, the St. Francis Social Action Ministry will collect food, clothing and bassinets at the back of the church in the spirit of St. Francis' giving to the poor. Winter coats, boots and mittens are especially needed. Nonperishable canned items will be accepted. The bassinets will go to disadvantaged teenage mothers. Donations will be accepted until Saturday, when they will be donated to Sister Theresa Tremblay of the Daughters of Charity of the Most Precious Blood in Bridgeport.
For more information about making donations, email Missy Iatesta.
St. Francis of Assisi is located at 35 Norfield Road in Weston.
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