On October 4, Catholics celebrate the feast of St. Francis of Assisi, the patron saint of animals and ecology. This year, parishioners at the Malate Church in Manila participated in a special blessing for their pets, predominantly dogs, but also cats and even a snail. Father Leonito Distor, the parish priest, explained that this event aligns with the theme of St. Francis and emphasizes respect for all of God’s creation.
During the celebration, pet owners lined up to have their animals blessed with holy water. For many, this act symbolizes gratitude for the joy and companionship pets bring to their lives. Gaudine Supnet, a nurse and dog owner, shared that her four Shih Tzus are part of her family, deserving acknowledgment for their presence. Additionally, the church offered free pet vaccinations as part of the event.
