‘Blessing of the Animals’ Sunday in Binghamton

I remember as a kid going to get our food blessed around Easter time.  Another fond memory from my youth was the blessing of the animals.  Back then I had a couple of cats and it was something that was a special memory from days gone by.

My old alma mater, Seton Catholic Central, 70 Seminary Avenue on Binghamton's West side is honoring the Feast Day of Saint Francis of Assisi with the Blessing of Animals Sunday (October 2) in the school's parking lot at 1:00 p.m.  In the event of rain, the ceremony will be moved indoors.

St. Francis of Assisi, whose Feast Day is celebrated October 4th, is the patron saint of animals and ecology.  The centuries old custom of the Blessing of the Animals is conducted in remembrance of St. Francis' love for all creatures, big and small.

The ceremony is open to all people of all denominations who bring creatures large and small.  Seton Catholic Central is asking participants to please cage the animals and bring a blanket or two to cover the cage if needed.