The group with pets and their owners with Father Joe Przybysz pastor of St. Joseph’s Parish in Fort Jennings.

St. Francis of Assisi is one of these holy men.  His feast day is Oct. 4 and he was known as the lover of animals, as well as humans.

Father Joe Przybysz pastor of St. Joseph’s Parish in Fort Jennings chose Sunday afternoon for the annual Blessing of the Animals.  This is the third year for this event in Fort Jennings.  Many children and grownups took advantage of this special blessing of their pets.  Many have come each year.  They bring dogs, cats, rabbits and other small creatures.  One young man asked Father Joe to make a “house call” to bless the larger animals, like his daughter’s 4-H steer.  Father Joe was happy to comply with the request.