Blessing of the Animals Brings Pets to the Close

Biscuit, Mango, and George Washington took their seats amongst dozens of their peers (and two fish) in the amphitheater for a beloved chapel: the Blessing of the Animals. The four-legged friends were on their best behavior during the Upper School and Lower School ceremonies, despite the countless distractions of dog treats, endless offers of belly rubs, and the occasional squirrel.

The Blessing of the Animals, which is a celebration of Saint Francis of Assisi, creates space for the acknowledgement of the important roles that pets and animals play in our lives. During the ceremony, students acknowledged the importance of protecting the world that animals live in, expressing gratitude for the unconditional love that our pets provide us, and offering prayers for the pets who have passed away.

Reverends Hundley, Hollerith, and Chadwick led the ceremonies, accompanied by members of the Vestry, Choristers, and a selection of student readers. C Formers offered prayers “written by” a gecko, a tiger, an orca, andmore. Faculty, staff, and parents brought in their pets, ranging from beta fish, to bulldogs, to many golden retrievers, labradors, and mutts. All received a splash of holy water, a treat, and a blessing, wishing them a lifetime full of fetch, toys, treats, and joy.