Blessing Of The AnimalsDobbs Ferry, New York

On Sunday, October 4, The South Presbyterian Church of Dobbs Ferry, celebrated the Blessing of the Animals, when “churches all over the world recall St. Francis, who preached to the animals and blessed them.”

“We offer blessings for all animals. We recognize how we are blessed by our relationship to them. Bring your pets, pictures of pets stuffed animals. We will honor the memory of lost pets.”

I know that my Wiener dog, Chilly, has been a truly treasured member of my family for over 10 years now, not just a pet. So, I especially loved getting to photograph this sweet event honoring the special bond between animals and their people!

More photos here: http://collection.annewhitman.com/blessingoftheanimals/

Blessing of the Animals

20151003-_R6B4196 Blessing of the Animals

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