The Blessing of the Animals, a popular annual event for pet owners in Delaware County, will take place on Sunday, October 2, at 4 p.m. in the St. John Neumann Circle at Neumann University. This celebration is held yearly to commemorate St. Francis of Assisi's love for creation and for all of God's creatures. The event will kick off a week-long campus celebration of the legacy of St. Francis, who is the patron saint of animals and the environment.

Father Stephen D. Thorne, university chaplain, will bless animals of all kind in the circle. Last year, more than 50 pets – including hamsters, rabbits, dogs and cats – were among the animals blessed at the event that marks the feast of St. Francis, which is officially celebrated on October 4.

All are welcome to this free event. For more information about the Blessing of the Animals, call 610-361-5307.