Charlottetown church welcomes pets for service to bless animals

St. Paul's Anglican Church in Charlottetown is welcoming animals for a special service Sunday afternoon.

A blessing for animals has been done in other Island churches around October 4th, which is the day to remember St. Francis of Assisi, known for his love of animals, Archdeacon John Clarke says.

"People's pets aren't just animals, in a sense, they're part of the family. They're a part of God's creation too, and deserve God's blessing," he said.

It's the first time St. Paul's has had the event. Clarke says the idea was suggested by the congregation.

He anticipates it will be mostly dogs and cats. The church is encouraging people to bring their pets on a leash or in a carrying container.

"But we're open, whatever animals people bring is what we'll do," he said.

Each animal will get an individual blessing. Clarke says the service will take place at 1 p.m.

He says it will be shorter than a usual mass. Weather permitting, it will take place on the church lawn.