Pope Francis writes that to St. Francis of Assisi, “each and every creature was a sister united to him by bonds of affection. That is why he felt called to care for all that exists.” Around the world at the time of our founder’s feast, Franciscans bless animals to celebrate the great insight of the saint—that we can come to know God’s love for us, by praising God through his creatures. The friars of the Monastery welcome you to bring your pets for a blessing on Saturday, September 29, at 10:00 a.m., in our gardens (weather permitting).

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