Local church prepares to host annual 'Blessing of the Animals' Thursday
By BENJAMIN C. SHARP bensharp@journal-spectator.com

Bestowing blessings on animals may sound odd to some, but to St. Thomas' Episcopal Church Rev. Lance Ousley it makes perfect sense.

"The overall purpose is to emphasize that we have been given a ministry by God to be good stewards of creation; and that's animal, vegetable and mineral," he said.

"It's an understanding of the preciousness of all of God's creation."

For several years now, Ousley has been the "master of ceremonies" at the annual "Blessing of the Animals" hosted by his church. The event is held in conjunction with "The Feast of St. Francis of Assisi," held every Oct. 4.

Francis was the son of a wealthy merchant in Assisi who later embraced a life of poverty to devote himself to the poor. He became a Roman Catholic friar and later founded the Order of Friars Minor, more commonly known as the Franciscans.

Francis was canonized in 1228.

Over the centuries, he has become associated most closely with a love of animals and the environment, of which he is the patron saint.

"St. Francis was one who has carried that banner most boldly for the church through the ages," Rev. Ousley said.

Ousley will officiate at St. Thomas' "Blessing of the Animals" on Thursday, beginning at 6 p.m. in the Bishop's Garden at the 207 Bob-OLink church.

During the event, animals will receive a blessing and a St. Francis medallion. Afterwards, refreshments will be served to both man and beast (the beasts will get dog biscuits hand-made by St. Thomas youth).

It's not just dogs that are expected. In previous years, Ousley has blessed cats, horses and even goldfish. Last year, 52 pets were blessed.

Ousley believes the observance has positive effects on all who participate.

"We elevate to a higher humanity when we take care of all creation. We are less barbaric and more human," he said.