St. Albert the Great Church paid some extra special attention to its four-legged friends with a special Pet Blessing in honor of the Feast Day of St. Francis of Assisi.
Recognized by Catholics as the Patron Saint of Animals and Ecology, St. Francis of Assisi was canonized in 1228 by Pope Gregory IX and recognized again, several years later, by Pope John Paul II. St. Francis of Assisi is viewed by many as one of the most recognized and beloved saints. His Feast Day is celebrated each year on October 4.
Parishioners gathered with their leashed and caged pets on the front lawn of St. Albert the Great School to receive the special blessing alongside their beloved furry friends. The Rev. Edward Estok, pastor of St. Albert the Great Church, led the service and walked the grounds sprinkling holy water on pets and their owners. Attendees also sang “He’s Got the Whole World in His Hands” with Guitarist Joe Garcia and engaged in intercessions and hymns. Adam Hechko, medical director of North Royalton Animal Hospital and Paws at Play Resort and Daycare also gathered with members of his team to assist in the collection of canned food items for the local food pantry and distribute doggie treats to those in attendance.
“I love that this event brings everyone together in a new and special way,” Hechko said at the October 1 event. “It’s so fun too seeing the range of animals in attendance and seeing many familiar faces. It’s just another fun way to interact with pet owners in a different type of setting.”
Though the crowd gathered was of the canine and feline sort, there have been some unique attendees in years’ past, said Mary Pat Frey, pastoral associate at St. Albert the Great.
“We’ve had ponies and horses, turtles, bunnies, frogs, hamsters and guinea pigs,” Frey said.
The parish started the yearly tradition four years ago in an effort to further connect with the personal lives of its congregation. Throughout the year, the church also performs special blessings and recognitions for monthly wedding anniversaries, anointing of the sick and the Nativity Scene.
“The Pet Blessing really opens people’s hearts and everyone is always so appreciative and grateful that we would do this,” Estok, the proud owner of Buddy, a Boston Terrier, said. “It’s another way that we as St. Albert the Great Church are tapping into people’s lives.”
Parishioners Lesa and Kaylee Yakovich attended the St. Francis of Assisi Pet Blessing with their Cockapoo Bayley.
“He’s older so he needs all the blessings he can get,” joked Lesa. “This is just a very nice way for everyone to get together and celebrate the church. It’s also really great seeing all the different pets that people bring.”
Sophie Cayless gathered with her new kitten, Nimbus, for the blessing.
“I love St. Francis and this is the first time I’ve attended the event, because it’s the first time I’ve had a new animal, apart from parakeets,” Cayless said.
During the ceremony, dogs barked excitedly and one particularly brave Golden Retriever ran up the school steps to greet Estok.
“One has escaped the Ark!” Estok said.

        

By SARA MACHO HILL
Contributing Writer