Blessing of the Animals

Living with my human, Rita Spiegel, who is Jewish and studying Buddhism, I wasn't sure what the Blessing of the Animals event really is. It is a part of the Catholic Religion and is conducted in remembrance of St. Francis of Assisi's love for all creatures. 

I also wasn't able to attend with Rita. Although she brings me to many events, when she is working, she doesn't have to play with me, so I hung out at home, enjoying a little "alone" time.

Rita, along with Anastasia Lang of Relaxing Rex Canine Massage, were hired by Vintage Religion, a store in North Park (a community in San Diego) to photograph the event.  Rita was the photographer and Anastasia was the computer Guru who produced the 5x7 prints.  

The dogs had a great time, but a little confused by the Holy Water when it came at their nose.  Several of the dogs decided it lick the Holy Water stick offered to them by Fr. Michael Mangoian.

Most of the animals who came to be blessed were dogs, but a few cats dared to come. Actually, these were some of the calmest cats I've seen. 

 

Everyone who came in really loved and cared for their animals. Several of them came to the event last year and were remembered by the Fr. and the store employees.

It looks like Rita maybe working at future events at this location.