BLESSING OF THE ANIMALS

St.
Clement's Episcopal Church in Forest Hills will a welcome a different array of
faces on Saturday morning, October 5th. There will be a large group of people AND PETS surrounding a priest who will
be saying prayers for the gathering of dogs, cats, hamsters, snakes, turtles,
fish - even a goose and pig have joined us in the past! A wondrous variety of
creatures great and small that have warmed the hearts of their owners will come
for their special day of prayers and blessing.

It's
called the annual Blessing of the Animals and the custom is conducted this time
of year all over the world in remembrance of St. Francis of Assisi's love for
all animals and all creation. St. Clement's celebration will take place on
Saturday, October 5, 2013 either in front of the church or in the church
sanctuary - depending on the weather. Come at 10:00 am to register, meet, greet
and participate in the blessing service. A light lunch will be served in the
Parish Hall after the blessing.

For
the safety of all, please bring your companion animals for the blessing on a
lead or contained. For more information, visit the St. Clement website at www.stclement.net,
check out our Facebook page at facebook.com/worshipundertheoaks, or call the
church office at 813-932-6204. St. Clement Episcopal Church is located at 706
W. 113th Avenue off North Boulevard between Linebaugh Avenue and Country Club
Drive (Fowler Avenue).