All pet owners and animal lovers gathered at the Washington National Cathedral on Oct.2, 2022, for this year’s Blessing of the Animals. The prayer gathering started at 2 p.m. with a brief service, as mentioned on Wtop News.
Blessing of the Animals
Despite the expected rain showers after Hurricane Ian, the short affair pushed through at the bus garage of the church on Sunday. All the clergy blessed all the pets that were assembled in the area with some holy water, together with their respective owners.
National Cathedral spokesperson Kevin Eckstrom said that the 45-minute event is nothing compared to the 40-day stay that Noah and the animals spent on the ark. He also emphasized that the Blessing of the Animals is one of the most joyous celebrations at the Cathedral.
All kinds of animals are welcome to the event. Though dogs are the most common, some pet owners bring their cats, hamsters, and fish along. There are also those who come with their butterflies, lizards, birds, and gerbils. It is open to anything that relies on human care, as mentioned in the article.
Aside from the variety of animals that can take part in the event, the activity is also open to everyone, regardless of religious affiliations. Non-Christians, even non-religious people, can come and get a blessing.
The same source revealed that the Cathedral holds the said event annually because pets are special animals in someone’s life. They become a source of joy and comfort, especially when they welcome somebody at the doorstep with their happy, wagging tails. Through that spark of happiness, God is present.
Different denominations throughout the region also held the event. As the article mentioned, it is an open avenue for everybody to give thanks to the other living creatures in the world.
According to the Episcopal Diocese of Washington, the free Sunday event honored the feast day of the patron saint of animals and the environment, St. Francis of Assisi.
Eckstrom also noted that the said saint is best known as the guy who spent his time talking to animals and plants. He taught many people to find beauty in all parts of God’s creation, especially the natural world. This includes all the animals and the pets that become a big part of people’s lives.
There were also food trucks and music during the activity from 12:30 p.m. to 3 p.m. Attendees enjoyed the offerings before and after the prayer.
Washington National Cathedral
Based on its official website, Washington National Cathedral is a unique place at the intersection of sacred and civic life. It is grounded in the reconciling love of Jesus Christ for all.
The said church is also a house of prayer for all people and a place for national events. It is a sacred place where people come together to bring glory and honor to the Living God.
Washington National Cathedral is located at 3103 Wisconsin Avenue, NW Washington, D.C., under the leadership of the Very Rev. Randolph “Randy” Marshall Hollerith.
