SAINT ANN’S
OLD LYME—On Sunday, Oct. 6, at 1 p.m., Saint Ann’s Episcopal Church hosts the St Francis Day Blessing of the Animals. At this short outdoor service held in the church’s side yard, prayers will be said, songs will be sung, and pets (leashed or caged) will be blessed.
All are welcome to this annual fall favorite.
The Rev. Dr. Anita Louise Schell, Rector of Saint Ann’s, reflects, “In our Blessing of the Animals, we honor a person who during his lifetime lived a motto that has become quite popular: ‘Small is beautiful.’'”
She continues, “That one person can make a difference is clearly seen in Francis of Assisi, a monk who grew up in a life of great luxury and chose to adopt extreme poverty as a way to live. “
Schell concludes, “Francis and his order of monks’ single-mindedness of purpose was not limited to people living in poverty. He chose to befriend all of the created order, and indeed, has become known as the patron saint of ecology, for his affinity to animals, nature and children.”
CHRIST THE KING
OLD LYME—Oct. 6 marks Christ the King’s observance of the Feast of St. Francis with the annual Blessing of the Animals.
Bring your pets to the church parking lot at 1 p.m. for a special blessing by Fr. Walter.
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