On October 4, the feast day of St. Francis of Assisi, the Malate Church in Manila celebrated a heartwarming annual blessing of animals. St. Francis, known as the patron saint of animals and ecology, is celebrated for his love and compassion toward all living beings.
Many parishes opt to hold these blessings on the first Sunday of October for ease, bringing together a community of pet owners eager to honor their beloved animals. At Malate Church, parishioners lined up with their pets—mostly dogs, but also cats and even a pet snail—waiting to receive blessings from the priests.
Father Leonito Distor, the parish priest, emphasized the event’s significance in relation to St. Francis’ teachings and the church’s mission to advocate for respect and care for all of God’s creations. For pet owners, this blessing was an opportunity to express gratitude for the joy and companionship their animals provide.
Alongside the blessings, the church offered free vaccinations for pets, fostering a sense of community care. Pet owners like nurse Gaudine Supnet expressed the sentiment that their animals are family members deserving recognition and appreciation for their presence in their lives.
