Catholic Church Honors Feast of St. Francis With Blessing of Animals

In honor of the Feast of St. Francis of Assisi, patron saint of animals, the Basilica in Baltimore will celebrate a Blessing of Animals at 3 p.m. on the front lawn. All are welcome to bring their pets or animals (on leashes or in appropriate cages).

St. Francis of Assisi founded the Franciscan order in 1209 and is often depicted in liturgical art as giving sermons to animals or birds.