The blessing of the animals in the plaza at olvera street is an old tradition in los angeles that goes back 87 years. On this day, people bring household pets to their parish church for a blessing ceremony. In the Episcopal Church, I have served as acolyte, lector, thurifer, verger, and member of the Congregation Council (at St. John's Pro-Cathedral in Los Angeles). All rights reserved. The Blessing is hosted by Justin Rudd's nonprofit Community Action Team (CAT) which includes Haute Dogs. If you are one of our rare donors, you have our gratitude and we warmly thank you. How do you assure that your cow never runs dry of milk? There will always remain demand for live animals to eat. Blessing of the animals at olvera street los angeles, saturday march 31. With more people than ever before using the librarya record 17 million last year aloneyour support helps the Library provide people with the resources they need to succeed and thrive. Beneath the cooling shade of grandfather oak trees in the church grounds, Father Andrew Heyes will perform blessings of farm animals. 514 W. Adams BlvdLos Angeles, CA 90007(213) 747-6285churchoffice@stjohnsla.org, 514 W. Adams Blvd. About 185 people and 92 pets showed up for the blessing, including some in wheelchairs and strollers and some up for pet adoption. To all our readers, Please don't scroll past this. If you donate just $5.00, the price of your coffee, Catholic Online School could keep thriving. 13. Given that aim, the comfort and welfare of the animal is subordinate to the concerns of economical production. The Best Blessing Of The Animals 2021 Los Angeles Ideas, +15 Animal Crossing New Horizons O'hare 2022. Something went wrong while submitting the form. Still, he lived in an age before the industrial farm. Takes place in April. 2023 Your Bilingual Community Newspaper for the Entire San Fernando Valley. By | jun 3, 2022 | james carone florida energy | when a man criticizes another woman | jun 3, 2022 | james carone florida energy | when a man. New Americans San Fernando (818) 365-3156 12 p.m. - 12:30 p.m. (wireless printing). St. James Episcopal Church in Newport Beach rolled out the green carpet this year for the animal guests. Susan Hoffman is a contributor to Times Community News. Lord, When Did We See You Hungry or Thirsty or a Stranger or Naked or Ill or in Prison? Phone: (818) 365-3111 El Pueblo Monument Photo Collection, Exhibit: A Century of Girl Scouts in Los Angeles, Join the Library Foundation of Los Angeles, Lo nuevo en espaol: libros interesantes que llegan a la biblioteca este mes para todas las edades, California Library Association Beatty Award, El puente de la Biblioteca Central / The Bridge in the Central Library, How do I print from my laptop? It will be real meat, made from actual meat cells, but it will be synthetically grown. The blessing of the animals in the plaza at olvera street is an old tradition in los angeles that goes back 87 years. Among the annual local services of the Blessing of the Animals, a custom that originated in the 13th century, is Holy Spirit Catholic Church in Fountain Valley, which took on the custom in 2006 and usually sees from 25 to 30 animals brought to the service. Saint Paul the Apostle 10750 Ohio Avenue Los Angeles, CA 90024, Phone: (310) 474-1527 parishoffice@sp-apostle.org, Weekly Bulletin Upcoming Events Sacraments Paulist Fathers, Archdiocese of Los Angeles Archbishop Angelus News Schools Catholic Cemeteries and Mortuaries. He once proclaimed, "On Christmas even the walls should enjoy meat." What if you could receive a blessing for your petmore special still? We are reminded by Gomez that, according to the bible, animals were the first to become aware of Christs resurrection, therefore this festival has been organized annually on the Saturday before Easter Sunday to bless and honor them. Celebrate the feast of saint francis of assisi as we bless the animals. Daily Readings for Friday, March 03, 2023, St. Katharine Drexel: Saint of the Day for Friday, March 03, 2023, Lenten Prayer: Prayer of the Day for Monday, February 27, 2023. 52. In remembrance of his love for all creatures, guardians or pet parents traditionally take their animal companions to church for a Blessing of the Animals. Today Is The Feast Day Of Saint Francis Of Assisi. Bring Your Pets To The Front Of The Church On Sunday, October 4 At 4:00 Pm To Receive A Blessing. STREET CLOSURES , Los Angeles, CA 90007, Book Club - "Citizen: Faithful Discipleship in a Partisan World" by C. Andrew Doyle, Said Mass | The Feast of St. Michael and All Angels. The Best Blessing Of The Animals 2021 Los Angeles Ideas. Money Matters If someone in your home has allergies or asthma the old insulation can produce airborne allergens that can cause health problems. Your gift is tax-deductible as allowed by law. It will be faster and easier to produce. The Archbishop and his holy water(photo by Nikki Kreuzer). But how much do you know about the historical Francis of Assisi? LOS ANGELES, CA (California Network) - Every Catholic family that loves pets has taken their critters to the parish priest for a blessing. October 09, 2021. What would Saint Francis say about how we treat animals today? Event Details Your Bilingual Community Newspaper for the Entire San Fernando Valley. The blessing of the animals has been a part of olvera street since its founding in 1930, but its practice dates back to the 4th century, when san antonio de abad was named. Deacon Francisco Javier Martin of St. Joachim Catholic Church in Costa Mesa sprinkles holy water on a dog in honor of the Blessing of the Animals celebration held Sunday afternoon. While we cannot gather in person this year for the Service or the Outdoor Fair, were excited to offer an online extravaganza that will include pet blessings, childrens activities, and a behind-the-scenes look at the history of one of our most beloved days of the year! Nancy Daniels is a seasoned media and content executive. Los Angeles, CA. Meet the organizations and individuals helping to care for and protect the feathered denizens of this sacred space. The Blessing of the Animals Festival is a 32-year-old tradition at St Clement's in Tampa, FL. October 4 is the feast day of St. Francis of Assisi, and a popular celebration is the blessing of the animals. Archbishop Jose Gomez - offers a blessing to animals present Michael Hanifin,left and Fr. Culture This means no creature will have to be killed to provide your meat. Based on past info, the Blessing may take place at approx. Things to Do in Los Angeles The Blessing of the Animals The Blessing of the Animals See all things to do The Blessing of the Animals 4.5 2 #343 of 784 things to do in Los Angeles Points of Interest & Landmarks Visit website Write a review About Suggested duration < 1 hour Suggest edits to improve what we show. Job Seekers On this feast day of St. Francis, it's good to imagine a future in which humans take his message to heart when dealing with animals. Student Success Blessing of the Animals:El Pueblo de Los Angeles Historic Monument, Olvera Street, L.A., CA 90012; Occurs annually the Saturday proceeding Easter Sunday. Blessing of the Animals Horses Postcard CA at the best online prices at eBay! Bring your pets or even a photo of them to be blessed. We have a synthetic green grass runway running down the center aisle inside the church to make our four-legged, furry, hopping, slithery, swimming yes, I have even blessed goldfish feel welcome and extra special.. You may also purchase a distinct commemorative charm, which can be worn by either you or your pet. Saturday, October 31, 2020 was the Blessing of Animals at Saint Dominic Church. Source: saintmarks.org. The celebration begins with a procession of animals led by the highest power of Catholicism in our city, the Archbishop of Los Angeles, Jose H. Gomez. If you have an animal infestation and contamination you will want to remove and replace your insulation safely. The blessing of the animals, a yearly springtime ritual held downtown on olvera street has been an answer to these kind of questions in los angeles for 83 years. 4:00am-6:00pm. https://olveraevents.com/blessing-of-animals-olvera-street, See More in Dog Friendly Bars & Nightlife, See More in Discount Clinics & Vaccinations. Canon Cindy Evans Voorhees. Blessing of the animals event blessing of the animals september 11, 2021 10:00 am 514 w. By | jun 3, 2022 | james carone florida energy | when a man criticizes another woman | jun 3, 2022 | james carone florida energy | when a man. Modern ranches will be quickly rendered obsolete. The Blessing of the Animals commemorates the death of St. Francis of Assisi. Haute Dogs Interfaith Blessing of the Animals: 5:45 p.m., Sunday, Oct. 3, Granada Beach's concrete boat ramp next to Rosie's Dog Beach, 1 Granada Ave ., Long Beach, free; parking is free after 6 p.m. While the Feast of St. Francis will look very different this year, our communitys needs are now even greater given the many crises we are facing. Included have been: Australia: dogs, cats, tropical birds, reptiles, rodents, native Australian bees, [2] goldfish, ferrets, hermit crabs, mounted police horses, rabbits, mice [1] El Pueblo Monument Photo Collection, Girl, boy and horse at Blessing of the Animals, [ca.1960s]. The Cathedral of St. John the Divine welcomes you to a day of music, prayer, joy, blessings and fun in honor of Saint Francis, the patron saint of animals and the environment. The free market will force its adoption since the product will be cheaper, healthier and faster to produce than ranched meat. Thankfully there are no Exorcist-like reactions and the attitude of the soaked animals is generally sublime. Enough meat can be cheaply produced by this means to feel the poorest of the poor. 9 Views. Fr. The Blessing of the Animals has been a part of Olvera Street since its founding in 1930, but its practice dates back to the 4th century, when San Antonio De Abad was named the patron saint of the animal kingdom and began to bless animals to promote good health. The Rev. In honor of Saint Francis of Assisi, patron of animals and nature, Father Emmanuel Delphin blessed dogs, cats, some gerbils and even some fish. True to the celebratory nature of this event many of the animal cages or carriers are decorated with spring flowers and bows while many of the dogs wear fancy ribbons and some are even dressed in costumes. The Blessing of the Animals has been a long-standing L.A. tradition. When I've attended in the past, the whole area has been packed with people and their pets. Nascar pinty's series cars for sale; The blessing of the animals by. Check out these images from our Photo Collectionof past festivals to see what sorts of pets people had in vintage L.A. Los libros en espaol ms esperados estn disponibles en tu biblioteca. Ulrich beck risk society ppt; Blessing of the animals 2021 los angeles. It is often the lure of exploration that prompts readers to Matt Ruffis the author of the novels 88 Names, Lovecraft Country, Bad Monkeys, The Mirage Los libros son puentes a otros mundos y experiencias, nos unen a una rica tradicin de la Art Blessing. Kids and Parents The blessing of the animals by. El Pueblo Monument Photo Collection, Three women with parakeets at Blessing of the Animals event, [ca.1950s]. Live meat taken from live animals will become an expensive delicacy. Whether they live on land, in water, or fly in trees, all animals are welcome to receive a blessing from Archbishop Jose Gomez. Whether they live on land, in water, or fly in trees, all animals are welcome to receive a blessing from Archbishop Jose Gomez. Blessing of the Animals Sunday, Oct. 3 at 5:45 p.m. at 1 Granada Avenue in Long Beach A number of interfaith leaders will bestow benedictions on critters of all stripes Speaking loving words to. Saint Francis would probably approve. Nascar pinty's series cars for sale; , los angeles, ca 90007 worship services event description all things bright. Photo credit: Roy Cline, El Pueblo Monument Photo Collection, Crowds of people celebrating in the Plaza and on Olvera Street at Blessing of the Animals, [ca.1970s]. The Blessing of the Animals is ALWAYS scheduled for the Saturday before Easter Sunday. Haz clic en cada ttulo Jane Yolenis the author of more than four hundred books, including children's fiction, Books take readers on a journey. Premiere Events These new videos will premiere throughout the day. En espaol Today, the process is incredibly insensitive and far from pleasant. El Pueblo Monument Photo Collection, Two dogs one big one small at Blessing of the Animals event, [1967]. Celebrations There are lots of fun activities planned by the Department of Cultural Affairs who sponsor the event, and, you do not have to be Catholic to participate. Is it all your love and nurturing? The Blessing of the Animals, a yearly springtime ritual held downtown on Olvera Street has been an answer to these kind of questions in Los Angeles for 83 years. And the need for inhumane ranches and slaughterhouses will diminish to a minimum. The Blessing of the Animals commemorates the death of St. Francis of Assisi. Yet after the blessing ceremony, many of us will return to our daily lives and sit down to a supper that includes meat. Although this tradition goes back to 1930 in Los Angeles, world wide it has been taking place since the 4th century, apparently started by St. Anthony of Abad, who is known as the patron saint of the animal kingdom. 1. . Books Rev. LAPL Reads We mainly have dogs, but there have been cats, parrots, birds, iguana, snake, chinchilla and even a fish in a bowl, said Pat Erskine, business manager for the church. Join us for this FREE family-friendly & pet-friendly event! Blessing of the Animals October 3, 2021 @ 12:00 pm - 12:30 pm Sunday, October 3 First United Methodist Church 1525 Glenoaks Blvd. Please plan accordingly. Archbishop Jos H. Gomez places the Book of Gospels and a cross on the coffin of Bishop David O'Connell before leading a procession at Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels, in downtown Los Angeles . The blessing ceremony shows how much we love our animals. Heritage Months STEAM But as the price of synthetic meat drops and the quality of the product improves, it will dominate the market within a short span of time. We're not salespeople, but we depend on donations averaging $14.76 and fewer than 1% of readers give. Email: production@sanfernandosun.com. Christians worldwide venerate St. Francis, the patron saint of animals and the environment. All the latest on Orange County from Orange County. Seniors, families, singles, and children, are encouraged to bring their dogs, cats, birds, lizards, rabbits, pot-bellied pigs, fish, tortoises and turtles and other well-behaved pets. The Blessing of the Animals has been a part of Olvera Street since its founding in 1930, but its practice dates back to the 4th century, when San Antonio De Abad was named the patron saint of the animal kingdom and began to bless animals to promote good health. Map. Saint Francis believed that how a person treats animals is a sign of how they will treat one another. El Pueblo Monument Photo Collection, Leo Politi standing in front of Blessing of Animals mural on the Biscailuz Building, [1979]. The Right Reverend Andrew ML Dietsche, Bishop of New York, will offer the sermon. Father Michael Hanifin of St. Joachim in Costa Mesa has been blessing animals for seven years in the outdoor playground on the church campus. Light Your Prayer Candle Now This year we have a unicorn pony, emu, some goats and a pig celebrating with us all the way from Hemet, said Rev. The Blessing of the Animals has been a part of Olvera Street since its founding in 1930, but its practice dates back to the 4th century, when San Antonio De Abad was named the patron saint of the animal kingdom and began to bless animals to promote good health. The Rev. Archbishop Jose Gomez - offers a blessing to animals present. The Blessing of the Animals, a yearly springtime ritual held downtown on Olvera Street has been an answer to these kind of questions in Los Angeles for 83 years. According to the Humane Society, the earliest books about Saint Francis were written by Thomas of Celano, a member of Francis religious order who knew the saint personally. *While the blessing is rooted in Catholic tradition, you do not have to be Catholic to participate. There is also a healthy mix of barnyard animals goats, chickens, sheep, horses and cows and a lesser, but more impressive scattering of more obscure animals, namely iguanas, snakes, tortoises and even llamas. El Pueblo Monument Photo Collection, Girl with horse at Blessing of the Animals, [ca.1940s]. El Pueblo Monument Photo Collection, Free Refreshments for the Animals at Blessing of the Animals, [ca.1960s]. If Catholic Online has given you $5.00 worth of knowledge this year, take a minute to donate. Catholic Online is a Project of Your Catholic Voice Foundation, a Not-for-Profit Corporation. In the early days of the pueblo, the priest from La Placita Church would bless the livestock of the farmers to keep them healthy and productive, benefiting the entire community. It's a little awkward to ask, but we need your help. The Blessing of the Animals has been a part of Olvera Street since its founding in 1930, but its practice dates back to the 4th century, when San Antonio De Abad was named the patron saint of the animal kingdom and began to bless animals to promote good health. Whichever way you may lean toward, the bottom line is that it is still a nice excuse to getthe animals out of the house, yard or barn. Improve this listing All photos (9) All animals, and humans, are welcome! This short video previews a longer documentary about the animal life on the Close. If the blessing works you can choose to be scientific about it and write it off as self-fulfilling prophecy or maybe, just maybe, you can believe that there is real magic in the air. El Pueblo Monument Photo Collection, Pitchess, Consuelo de Bonzo, Mario Valadez, and Hernando Courtright in group photo at Blessing of the Animals, [ca.1960s]. Join Bishop Dietsche, Dean Daniel, and members of the Cathedral community far and wide to honor the Earth, celebrate the animal kingdom, and bless the pets we love. El Pueblo Monument Photo Collection, Girl with goat at Blessing of the Animals, [1967]. Such meat will be raised without antibiotics, parasites or other contaminants that are often found in meat. Special Collections Editorial Team From about 9 a.m.-noon, animals and their human companions slowly cantered into the . Thank you! Legacy obituaries springfield, mo / fidelity foundation address boston / blessing of the animals 2021 los angeles. Blessing from 2:00-3:00 p.m. Whether you are devoutly religious, merely superstitious or just the kind of person who loves weird festivals held for esoteric or arcane beliefs, this annual event is worth checking out. Our next Book Club meeting is Tuesday, March 9 at 7 pm. We ask that dogs be leashed and cats be crated. 2 pm A Sneak Peek at The Close as an Oasis. Most people donate because Catholic Online is useful. Major composers are featured in a voluntary ahead of the service, starting 5 to 10 minutes before. Father Michael Hanifin of St. Joachim in Costa Mesa has been blessing animals for seven years in the outdoor playground on the church campus. No longer was the blessing limited to cows, horses and goats, but the blessing began to include all animals, especially pets. Celebrate the Feast of Saint Francis of Assisi as we bless the animals. The blessing of the animals by. 98% of our readers don't give; they simply look the other way. The celebration of Easter morning will have all the fanfare of music and beautiful liturgy as we proclaim Jesus Christ is truly risen. Subject to change due to postponement of event. Join us for this FREEfamily-friendly & pet-friendlyevent! Blessing: 2 p.m. - 3 p.m.: Archbishop Jose Gomez offers blessing to animals present Entertainment: 12 p.m. - 4 p.m. Photo Collection Review Of Animal Shelter Volunteer Charlotte Nc 2022. October 4 is the feast day of St. Francis of Assisi, and a popular celebration is the blessing of the animals. On this day, people bring household pets to their parish church for a blessing ceremony. The blessing of the animals in the plaza at olvera street is an old tradition in los angeles that goes back 87 years. The Los Angeles Public Library serves the largest most diverse population of any library in the United States. Saturday, April 16, 2022 - 12 p.m. - 4 p.m. Among those lining up after him along the cobblestone plaza are the expected common household pets of course dogs (many dressed in fanciful finery), cats, birds, guinea pigs and rabbits. All animals, led by their owners, follow the Archbishop to his flower festooned pulpit at the end of the plaza where plastic tubs filled with holy water await. Observing the Season: Lent at the Cathedral, Advancing the Community of Tomorrow (ACT), https://www.pbs.org/show/earths-sacred-wonders/. Other items, including a matching bandana set, are also available. Your hamburger will grow in a lab tray, instead of inside an animal. The blessing takes place from 2pm - 3pm. Canon Patrick Malloy, Sub-Dean of the Cathedral, sits down to talk with friars from the Society of Saint Francis about Saint Francis as a radical reformer and how they live out his mission today. Yet, the future may soon resolve this dilemma. Website. All pets blessed will receive a keepsake medallion from Assisi, Italy. Zines. The occasion is a little chaotic, usually taking place in the parking lot. Technology Scientists think they can also modify the fat content and cholesterol in the meat. Bring your little ones to our parking lot at 11am to receive the blessing of st. All things bright and beautiful (all creatures great and small) are welcomed to our annual blessing of the animals to take place on the Cathedral grounds. Join us for this FREEfamily-friendly & pet-friendlyevent. Science Celebrate the Feast of Saint Francis of Assisi as we bless the animals. The 7 th . Kicking off the weekend of celebrations for the feast of st. Legacy obituaries springfield, mo / fidelity foundation address boston / blessing of the animals 2021 los angeles. Blessing of the animals 2021 los angeles. The practice dates back to the fourth century when San Antonio De Abad was named the patron saint of the animal kingdom and began to bless animals to promote their good health. Daily Reading for Saturday, March 4th, 2023, 'Help Give every Student and Teacher FREE resources for a world-class Moral Catholic Education', Almsgiving, Prayer, and Fasting: The Three Pillars of Lent. Its abject cuteness and sass? While we cannot gather in person this year for the Service or the Outdoor Fair, we're excited to offer an online . Branch Libraries 2015by OSMAF. To watch the full series, visit https://www.pbs.org/show/earths-sacred-wonders/. While originally from a small town in Texas, the Episcopal Church has been a guide and home for me since I lived in New York City and subsequently in Los Angeles and Phoenix. And may he remind us of our serious obligation to respect and watch over them with care, in light of that greater and higher fraternity that exists within the human family.. Miguel Angel Carabez of St. Joachiim Catholic Church in Costa Mesa celebrate the Blessing of the Animals Sunday afternoon. The Cathedrals Close serves as an 11-acre urban oasis for humans and animals alike. Movies Every year on or around the fourth day of October, people all over the world, residents of Orange County included, gather to celebrate St. Francis Day in honor of the patron saint of animals, Saint Francis of Assisi. sanfernandosun.com Please continue to practice the appropriate physical distance from your neighbor and make sure your animal is restrained. Animals of every kind are invited to this special ceremony. Ann Tomlinson's Bitsy and Boo Boo receive blessings from the Rev. History Goats and their people(photo by Nikki Kreuzer). Several startup companies have formed with the aim of growing meat and other animal products in a laboratory from stem cells. Line to receive blessing begins at 1:00 p.m. and willbe in front of the Pico House - please follow signs & instructions from event staff. You may occasionally receive promotional content from the Daily Pilot. Thomas books reveal Francis love for animals and his conviction that religious faith and care for Gods creatures go hand in hand. In 1979, Pope John Paul II paid tribute to Francis love for creation by declaring him the patron saint of ecologists. Many four-legged friends are seen members of the family, and the blessing is open to all. Subject to change due to postponement of event. The Blessing of the Animals in the plaza at Olvera Street is an old tradition in Los Angeles that goes back 87 years. Francis of assisi, the patron saint of animals and the environment. Smaller pets will be blessed inside the church. Canon Cindy Evans Voorhees, St. James Episcopal Church Newport Beach blesses a pig during the annual Blessing of the Animals Sunday. El Pueblo Monument Photo Collection, Boy and girl with donkey at Blessing of the Animals, [ca.1960s]. When it comes to cats versus dogs, or birds, rabbits, and horses, what makes your pet special? The blessing of the animals, los angeles: Kicking off the weekend of celebrations for the feast of st. How to buy pallets from victoria secret. Blessing of the animals 2021 los angeles. Blessing of the Animals Monday, October 4th Doors open at 5:30pm, Service is promptly at 5:45pm Bring your family and leash-trained or kenneled pet to a service led by Pastor Woody Hall. Photo credit: Ralph Crane, LIFE & El Pueblo Monument Photo Collection, Girl with white rabbit in cage, at Blessing of the Animals event, [ca.1960s]. Whether you are devoutly religious, merely superstitious or just the kind of person who loves weird festivals held for esoteric or arcane beliefs, this annual event is worth checking out. A tuxedoed dog receives a sprinkle of holy water from Deacon Francisco Javier Martin at St. Joachiim Catholic Church in Costa Mesa in honor of the Blessing of the Animals celebration held Sunday afternoon. St. Dominic Catholic Church 2002 Merton Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90041, (323) 254-2519 The animals are more interested in each other, or in clawing their way into their owners' chests. San Fernando, CA 91340 Calendar of Events. If you are able to help, please consider donating in honor of St. Francis to support the Cathedrals urgent priorities, including: feeding people through our soup kitchen; clothing those in need through our clothing closet; and nourishing the soul through our pastoral, education, arts and music programs. Blessing from 2:00-3:00 p.m. Bring your pets to this event that celebrates the patron saint of animals. All materials contained on this site, whether written, audible or visual are the exclusive property of Catholic Online and are protected under U.S. and International copyright laws, Copyright 2022 Catholic Online. In his honor, pictured below is "The Blessing of the Animals" (1974-1978), a mural by Leo Politi, located on 125 Paseo de la Plaza in my hometown of Los Angeles, California. LOCATION FOR BLESSING LINE: The Best Animals That Start With I In Spanish References, +15 Utah State Animal Crossword Clue Ideas, Incredible Garden Bench Diy Animal Crossing 2022, Awasome How To Make A Wrought Iron Fence More Private References, Famous Hearts And Paws Animal Hospital 2022, Incredible Animes Antiguos De Cartoon Network Ideas, Famous Will Fish Bite In 50-Degree Weather 2022. At the same time, animals around the world are being slaughtered for food products and other uses, often in ways that critics say are inhumane. We invite you to browse these additional resources for animal lovers young and old throughout the day to deepen your understanding and engagement with the Feast of Saint Francis! It will be healthier. So write it on your calendar for next year. The sad reality of meat production and the use of animals for various other purposes is a source of great discomfort for Catholics who otherwise love animals. Make a donation by check to the Los Angeles Public Library and send it to: Support the Library . The Cathedral of St. John the Divine welcomes you to a day of music, prayer, joy, blessings and fun in honor of Saint Francis, the patron saint of animals and the environment. Canon Cindy Evans Voorhees, St. James Episcopal Church Newport Beach, blesses a unicorn during the annual Blessing of the Animals Sunday. This brief service will feature prayer, readings, and music. Event Details El Pueblo Monument Photo Collection, Four children and sheep at Blessing of the Animals, [ca.1970s]. Photo credit: William Reagh, Los Angeles Photographers Collection, Photo of a cat at Blessing of the Animals event, [ca.1970s]. *While the blessing is rooted in Catholic tradition, you do not have to be Catholic to participate. The practice continued when Olvera Street opened in 1930, but the animals were a little different. We love our pets, but we also enjoy fresh milk, eggs and an occasional steak. The industrial production of synthetic meat is soon to begin. Most farm animals lived a bucolic life before being turned into food by their owners.