St. Francis Celebration & Pet Blessings

St. Francis Celebration & Pet Blessings

Sunday, October 4; 2:00–4:00 p.m.

EDS Field

Eight hundred years after his death, St. Francis of Assisi remains a beloved figure not only in the church but also in history. His love of animals and creation makes him relatable to many people, but his life and legacy go far beyond the yearly pet blessings we hold in his name.

Francis was born into a wealthy family in Assisi, Italy, around 1182. When he was a young man, he expected to live a life of luxury and comfort. But after an illness and serving time as a prisoner of war, Francis lost interest in the worldly wealth of his youth. He was inspired by the life and teachings of Jesus, such as the Sermon on the Mount, and he gave away all his worldly goods. From then, Francis lived out his life in simplicity, prayer and service to the poor and marginalized. Of course, Francis also developed a deep love for God’s creation and cultivated a sense of wonder and gratitude for the world. In his famous Canticle of the Creatures, he praised God for the sun, moon, earth, water, and all creatures.

There is much the modern person can learn much from St. Francis. He teaches us to pay attention to the presence of God in nature and in those who are poor and suffering, to give thanks at all times and in all things, and to try living with fewer material goods. Most importantly, Francis teaches us to care for all people and all creation.

This year marks the 800th anniversary of Francis’s death, and churches around the world are celebrating his life and legacy. At Emmanuel, we will honor Francis with an afternoon worshiping God, celebrating creation, caring for animals, serving our neighbors, and having a little fun together.

So, on Sunday, October 4, from 2:00–4:00 p.m., we will gather on the EDS field for an afternoon of St. Francis fun. We’ll have a liturgy and blessing of the animals, a special appearance by St. Francis himself, and a skit by our Emmanuel youth. Younger children will make cat and dog toys to donate. Diana Turner-Forte will lead us in meditation and movement, and we will collect donations for Caring Hearts for Canines and Feline Friends of Moore County. And of course, there will be ice cream sundaes. Can’t wait to see you there!