Giving thanks for all creatures great and small

By Wendy Shaw

A miniature poodle named in honour of two popes and another canine bearing the moniker of a Jane Austen romantic hero were part of a tail-wagging pack at a Blessing of the Animals event in Launceston.

Tobias Benedict Leo and Mr Darcy gathered with a collection of pets and their carers outside the Church of the Apostles on 3 October. Some parishioners carried photos of animals who were unable to attend or who had died.

It was the third annual blessing in the Launceston Parish, to honour the feast day of St Francis of Assisi. St Francis of Assisi is remembered for his great love for all living creatures and the whole of God’s creation.

Among the first to arrive was Tobias Benedict Leo, 14, a beautifully behaved miniature poodle with his owner, Launceston Parish organist Janet Hoare.

“What a beautiful man St Francis was,” Janet observed.

“Anyone who loves God’s creatures is beautiful.”

Kings Meadows parishioner Pauline Heazlewood was there with grandson Beau, 11, and mixed terrier Tilly, 18.

“Beau hopes the blessing will stop Tilly from tripping me up,” Pauline explained.

Launceston Parish assistant priest Fr Vinco Muriyadan said the parish community was grateful for “this joyful occasion, celebrating God’s beautiful creation through the spirit of St Francis”.

“It is important that on the feast of St Francis of Assisi, our parish joyfully celebrates the annual Blessing of Animals, which brings together families and their beloved pets in a beautiful celebration of faith, gratitude and God’s creation,” he said.

“St Francis had a deep love for all creatures and saw them as God’s gifts, calling the sun, moon, animals, and all creation his brothers and sisters.

“Following his example, parishioners gathered with their dogs, cats and other pets to give thanks for the companionship, joy and unconditional love these animals bring into our lives.

“I think the blessing is a wonderful reminder that caring for creation is part of our Christian responsibility.

“Our pets teach us valuable lessons about loyalty, trust, affection, and living in the present moment. The celebration also encouraged us to treat every living creature with kindness and respect.”

Parishioners from neighbouring parishes, including George Town and West Tamar, also attended.

A number of other parishes held similar events.