Blessing of Animals October 6

On Oct. 4, people all over the world celebrate the feast day of St. Francis of Assisi. St. Francis is known as the patron saint of animals, and whose life of love and service are followed by the Hospital Sisters of St. Francis, the founding institute of Hospital Sisters Health System (HSHS).
 
In remembrance of St. Francis of Assisi’s love for all creatures, HSHS St. Francis Hospital invites the community and their pets to a Blessing of Animals ceremony Oct. 6 in the front of the hospital at 4 p.m.  Father Dan Willenborg, hospital chaplain, will perform the blessing. All colleagues and community are invited to bring their pet or a picture of their pet for a blessing. All animals in attendance must be on a leash. Pet owners are responsible for cleaning up after their pets. 
 
Pets of all kinds—and their people—are welcome! Pet supply donations will be gratefully accepted and distributed to the Benld Adopt-A-Pet animal shelter. 
 
For more information, contact Mary Meyer, HSHS St. Francis administrative assistant, at 217-324-8577.