NORWAY, Maine (AP) - The Roman Catholic Church is giving its blessing to parishioners’ pets.
The church says all pets are welcome at one of seven celebrations of Saint Francis of Assisi’s Feast Day during the month of October.
Saint Francis of Assisi was known for his love of all of God’s creatures, and the Blessing of the Animals recalls his love by invoking God’s blessing on pets.
The first events were held last week at churches in the Maine communities of Norway, Biddeford and Lewiston. Additional events are scheduled Saturday and Sunday in Yarmouth, Portland, Augusta and Westbrook.
Church officials say all pets are welcome, including those from members of the public, not just parishioners.
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