Horsing around at inaugural blessing in Youngtown

The inaugural ‘Blessing of the Pets’ at St Peter’s Church in Youngtown attracted pets of all shapes and sizes, including a couple of horses.

Following the 9.30am Mass on Sunday 4 October, parishioners gathered on the church grounds for the joyful and memorable blessing of their beloved pets, in the spirit of St Francis of Assisi, patron saint of animals and ecology.

Administrator of the Kings Meadows Parish Fr Damien Sladen, who blessed the animals, said the event served “as a reminder of St Francis’ deep love for all of God’s creatures and his enduring message of care for creation”.

He said it also signified “the important place animals hold within family life and the companionship they provide”.

The event was made even more special by the presence of two horses—Keera and Sheema. Their presence delighted young and old alike, reminding all of the diversity of God’s creation.

With fine weather and well-behaved pets, the event was “a wonderful success”, Fr Damien said.

Each pet received a special gift on the day: a heart-shaped keepsake bearing the pet’s name, and a bookmark.

Fr Damien said it was hoped the blessing will become an annual event with organisers anticipating it will attract even larger numbers of pets and parishioners in the years to come.