MARTINS FERRY — Horses, dogs, cats, ferrets and geckos were celebrated Friday afternoon on the playground at St. Mary’s Central School in Martins Ferry.
Pastor John Mucha blessed the pets behind St. Mary’s Church in Martins Ferry after the students attended Mass.
“We feel that pets play a special role in our lives. We remember the special connection St. Francis has with animals and his gentle way of caring for the earth. ,” said Annette Wierter, sixth grade teacher and liturgy coordinator. “We look to the saints for examples of how we can become more like Jesus.”
For the past 15 years, St. Mary Central School has encouraged students to bring their pets to be blessed on Oct. 4, the feast day of St. Francis.
Wiertel said the school begins with a Mass in memory of St. Francis and his friend St. Clare, who gave up their wealth to help the poor. St. Francis believed that all of God’s creation reflects the beauty and presence of God. He is also the patron saint of pets and animals, meaning he offers them protection and prayers.
According to published reports, St. Francis gave up his wealth to live among the poor. As the years passed and he traveled and spread the word of God, Francis learned to appreciate the little things in God’s creation.
According to the article, “He recognized the oneness of all creation and spoke of the sun, moon, rivers, and animals as his brothers and sisters.”
After Mass, the students met with people from the parish who had brought their parents, grandparents, and pets to celebrate.
Two students also wore costumes. One person was dressed as St. Francis of Assisi from the story of the Wolf of Gubbio, and the other was St. Clare, a friend of St. Francis who founded the “Clare Order of the Poor” to care for the poor in France. .
Mucha said a prayer before drinking holy water to bless the animals.
Wiertel said it’s clear there is a real love for pets as people bring their pets to the blessing.
“On God’s holidays, we show respect and love for God’s creation, and we honor our pets and all the animals that bring us comfort and companionship,” Wiater said. I wish you blessings.”
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