The Feast of St. Francis of Assisi, celebrated annually on October 4, is a cherished celebration within the Church, as St. Francis is a patron saint of animals and the environment. Parishes across the Archdiocese of Newark commemorated this special day with the traditional Blessing of the Animals, where parishioners brought their pets to receive a special blessing, symbolizing a commitment to the care of all of God’s creation.
Schools throughout the Archdiocese also hosted events where students brough a variety of pets—ranging from dogs, cats, birds, and even small livestock—to participate in the ceremony. These gatherings included prayers, readings, and hymns that emphasized the importance of environmental stewardship and compassion for animals, embodying the spirit of St. Francis.
Explore the gallery below to see how parishes and Catholic schools across the Archdiocese welcomed a diverse array of animals, including goats, cats, dogs, and guinea pigs.
Cathedral Basilica of the Sacred Heart – NewarkCathedral Basilica of the Sacred Heart – NewarkCathedral Basilica of the Sacred Heart – NewarkSt. Francis of Assisi Church – HackensackSt. Francis of Assisi Church – HackensackSt. Francis of Assisi Church – HackensackOur Lady of Mercy Church – Park RidgeChurch of the Little Flower – Berkley HeightsChurch of the Little Flower – Berkley HeightsNotre Dame Church – North CaldwellChurch of the Presentation – Upper Saddle RiverChurch of the Presentation – Upper Saddle RiverImmaculate Heart of Mary and St. Patrick Church – ElizabethImmaculate Heart of Mary and St. Patrick Church – ElizabethImmaculate Heart of Mary and St. Patrick Church – ElizabethSt. Thomas More Church – FairfieldHoly Trinity Church – WestfieldSt. John the Baptist Church – RamseySt. Bartholomew the Apostle Church – Scotch PlainsSt. Bartholomew the Apostle Church – Scotch PlainsSt. Bartholomew the Apostle Church – Scotch PlainsSt. Teresa of Avila Church – SummitSt. Catharine Church – Glen RockAcademy of Our Lady of Glen RockAcademy of St. PaulDon Bosco PrepLacordaire AcademyLacordaire AcademyOur Lady of Mount Carmel – TenaflySt. Francis Academy – UnionSt. Peter’s Church – Belleville
