Blessing of the Animals Ceremonies in the Triangle

Take your four-legged members of the family to these local ceremonies honoring Saint Francis of Assisi
by Kara Adams | photography by Bob Karp

Each year on October 4, Christians around the world honor the life of saint Francis of Assisi, known as the patron Saint of animals. At many churches, it’s an opportunity for parishioners to bring their beloved pets in for a Billings, from dogs and cats fo fish and lizards. Local places of worship around the Triangle that will hold a special ceremony include:

Duke University Chapel
401 Chapel Drive; Durham
chapel.duke.edu

Fairmont United Methodist Church
2501 Clark Avenue
fairmontumc.org

St Francis of Assisi Catholic Church
11401 Leesville Road
stfranicsraleigh.org

Saint Michael the Archangel
804 High House Road Cary
stmichaelcary.org

Rev. Robin Arcus gives a blessing during the Blessing of the Animals at Duke Chapel, who hosted a Blessing of Animals since 1989.
Mary Walters of Durham gives a hug to her bunny, Blossom.
Mark Boudreaux of Carrboro gives a hug to his Green iguana named Ghost after being blessed.
Events