The loyalty, presence, and love that pets offer to their owners will be the focus of two gatherings in Peekskill on Sunday, October 5. The Blessing of the Animals will take place that day at Church of the Assumption and at Pugsley Park, led by St. Peter’s Episcopal Church. The first will begin at 1 p.m., while the second will be held at 3 p.m. Both activities honor the feast of St. Francis of Assisi, patron saint of animals, who is attributed with the phrase: “If you have a heart for animals, you will love the whole creation of God.”

At Church of the Assumption, the blessing will be officiated by Father Esteban Sánchez. In its parish bulletin, the church invited parishioners to bring their dogs, cats, birds, and other pets to receive the blessing in the church parking lot. “We must thank God for the lives of our animals who have been there in our moments of loneliness to be our friends and our companions,” said Sánchez during the 2024 ceremony. On that occasion, dozens of families gathered and shared heartfelt moments with their faithful companions.

René Chamba, a city resident, brought his dog “Manchas” to last year’s celebration. “For our family it is a very special moment because we feel that God protects our pet, whom we love as a member of our household,” he explained. Like Chamba, many community members expressed enthusiasm for these celebrations, which strengthen the sense of belonging and the responsibility that caregivers have for their animals.

This Sunday’s ceremony at Church of the Assumption is expected to follow a similar program, beginning with a brief homily by Sánchez, who will sprinkle holy water on the animals while offering prayers in their name. At Pugsley Park, a similar service will be held, led by Janine Thwaite of St. Peter’s Episcopal Church, who will soon be ordained as a deacon. According to the parish, this event has been celebrated in previous years with the participation of dozens of families, and a significant audience is also expected this year. The church recommends that animals be brought on a leash or in a carrier to ensure everyone’s safety.

Both the St. Peter’s and Assumption events are free and open to the public. Organizers emphasize that all pets are welcome: cats, dogs, birds, reptiles, fish, and even small rodents. Each family will have a few moments in front of the officiant for the blessing. For additional information, the parishes provide direct contact: Church of the Assumption at (914) 737-2071, and St. Peter’s Episcopal Church at (914) 737-6312. The churches’ websites also include details on safety and logistics, as well as guidelines for transporting and caring for pets during the ceremonies.