Union Hosts Blessing of the Animals Ceremony on Campus

Union College held a "Blessing of the Animals" ceremony on the front lawn of campus near the chapel on October 4th, the day of the Feast of St. Francis of Assisi.

The Rev. David Miller and the Rev. Paul Peterson conducted the ceremony to bless pets in honor of this unique tradition. Several people and their canine companions were present to participate in the ceremony. Millie Mac, Union's mascot was also on hand to assist with the blessing. Millie resides at the home of Steve and Carol Lynch.

According to Dr. Joni Caldwell, Union College psychology professor, "The church celebrates this blessing based upon stories of St. Francis blessing the birds, a frightened trapped rabbit and fish. There is also a story of his making peace between a wolf and the town of Gubbio. St. Francis saw all creation -- animals, plants, trees, flowers, the sun, moon, stars, water, wind, air, all the earth -- as good, as brothers and sisters, as revealing God's love, providence and beauty to us."

October 6, 2004

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