Blessing of the animals Sunday October 4 in Arlington

Blessing of the animals Sunday October 4 in Arlington

Have your animals blessed from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Sunday, October 4, at Gene Allen Park, adjacent to the Arlington Museum of Art, 201 W. Main Street, Arlington.

“All your varmints are welcome, large and small. If you have a cat, please put it in a carrier. Snakes, too!” said the Rev. Kevin Johnson of St. Alban’s Episcopal Church, worshiping in Theater Arlington. Johnson will perform the blessings.

The tradition dating back to the 12th century was first observed by St. Francis, who invited people to bring their pets, service animals, police dogs and horses and all God’s creatures to give thanks for what they do for us and what they mean to us.

Photos of the pets will be made at no charge by a professional photographer.

Animals not in carriers must be leashed.The Animal Blessing service will begin with a short, fun liturgy, honoring the animals placed in our care, followed by individual animal blessings.