Annual St. Francis Blessing of the Animals Oct. 1

SHEPHERD’S WATCH: The lawn in front of the St. Francis Assisi Church in Brant Beach is the site of the Blessing of the Animals, scheduled for 10 am on Saturday, Oct. 1 this year. (File Photo by Ryan Morrill)

St. Francis of Assisi Parish will celebrate the feast of its patron saint with the annual Blessing of the Animals at 10 am Saturday, Oct. 1. The ceremony, which is open to all, will be held on the lawn in front of the St. Francis of Assisi Church in Brant Beach.

“Bring your furry friends!” said St. Francis Communications Coordinator Amanda DeFusco. Each year, the church friars say a few words about people’s pets and then the animals are blessed.

In the days leading up to this event, St. Francis is collecting pet supplies to donate to the Southern Ocean County Animal Shelter in Manhawkin. Any items the shelter doesn’t need will go to Popcorn Park Animal Refuge.

DeFusco said the shelter has requested new blankets, pet food, cat litter, laundry detergent, cleaning wipes, collars, leashes and toys. Donations can be dropped off at the front desk of the St. Francis Community Center, which is typically open from 8 am to 6 pm

For more information call 609-494-8813 or visit stfrancisparishlbi.org. —JK-H.