Blessing Of The Animals This Weekend At Local Churches

In the Christian tradition, the days surrounding the feast day of St. Francis of Assisi (October 4th) have become celebrations when you can bring your animals to the churches to have them blessed. All humans and animals are welcome to participate, no religious affiliate required (for either human or animal).

In Uptown, these are the participating churches and times. Please post in the comments if you know of any additions.

• All Saints Episcopal Church, 4550 N Hermitage. Pet Blessings and a Pet Parade outside its building at 10am, Saturday, October 2nd. Rain or shine!
• St. Thomas of Canterbury Catholic Church*, 4827 N Kenmore. Pet Blessings at 11:30am, Saturday, October 2nd.
• St. Ita Catholic Church*, 5500 N Broadway. Pet Blessings at the school playground on Magnolia Street between Catalpa and Bryn Mawr at 11:30am, Saturday, October 2nd.
• Saint Mary of the Lake/Our Lady of Lourdes*, at the Saint Mary of the Lake worship site, ​4220 N. Sheridan. Pet Blessings in the side garden at 6:30pm, Monday, October 4th.

* The Chicago Archdiocese says, "Furry, feathery, fluffy, slimy and spikey friends of all shapes and sizes are welcome to the celebrations. All animals must be safely secured or on leashes."