In observance of Franciscan Mission Week, the Stritch community celebrated the annual Blessing of the Animals on Oct. 6.
Approximately 40 people
brought their pets to the ceremony in Heritage Park. Father Jim Gannon offered a brief
reflection and then, in Franciscan tradition, blessed each animal individually.
Known as the patron saint of animals, St. Francis championed respect for all living creatures.
The blessing took place in conjunction with Franciscan Mission Week, which provided opportunities for Stritch to come together and celebrate its Franciscan heritage, spirituality, and values.
Other Mission Week events
included the Transitus prayer service commemorating the death of
St. Francis, the celebration of the Mass of the Feast of St. Francis, a
community blessing of the Franciscan pilgrims departing for Assisi, and
the Stritch Fish Fry.
All of the events were conducted in
respect for the Franciscan values of creating a caring community, showing
compassion, reverencing all of creation, and making peace.