Animal blessings to be offered

First Christian Church will celebrate a Blessing of the Animals service on Saturday, Oct. 8 at 10:00 a.m. on the south side lawn of the church.

“Everyone is welcome to bring their furry friends for a word of blessing at this short and meaningful service,” said pastor Brad McBee.

He added that photos of the animals can be brought if it is difficult to bring the animal itself.

The Feast of St. Francis of Assisi is celebrated on Oct. 4, and because St. Francis is considered the patron saint of animals, many churches offer animal blessing services on or around Oct. 4.