CONWAY — All creatures great and small — and of all faiths and feathers — are invited to St. Peter’s Episcopal Church for the annual Blessing of the Animals, at 4 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 7. St. Francis of Assisi, born in 1182 to a prosperous merchant of Assisi, renounced his wealth and devoted himself to a life of poverty and service to the poor. He may be the most celebrated Christian voice to embrace the moral relevance of animals. According to stories, he often spoke of humans’ sacred relationship with other animals. In honor of his feast day (which falls on October 4th in the church calendar), churches around the world will participate in a Blessing of the Animals.
For the past several years St. Peter’s has hosted this event for the community. According to the Rev. Teri Daily, “Animals share our lives and teach us what it means to be stewards of God’s creation; therefore, it is fitting that on this day we give thanks to God for the animals entrusted to our care and pray for their health, peace, and well-being.” The Green Cart Deli will be on site selling their gourmet hot dogs with portions of the proceeds going to the Conway Animal Welfare Unit. There will also be a drive to benefit the Conway Animal Welfare Unit as well. Please help support Conway’s forgotten pet population by bringing one of the following items: dry dog or cat food, dog biscuits, kitty litter, collars, old blankets and towels.
St. Peter’s is located at 925 Mitchell Street directly adjacent to the Conway Junior High Campus. The event will be held by the outdoor altar behind the church on the Prince Street side of the block. Please bring all animals properly restrained for the safety of the other animals and their people in attendance.