File this one under “Aawws!! and Paawws.”

On Sunday, October 5^th, Trinity Episcopal Church, the adorably restored building at 119 Forest Avenue in Cranford,   is holding a Blessing of the Animals service, celebrating the bond of love and companionship shared between people and their pets. All are welcome, whether members of the church or not, to bring their pets at 8:00 and 10:00 AM for this blessing.

These services  honor St. Francis of Assisi’s legendary love for animals.   The annual Blessing of

the Animals has become an annual event celebrating the bond of love and companionship shared between people and their pets. Recently, Reverend Dr. Gina Walsh-Minor,  Rector of Trinity Episcopal Church, was quoted in the Cranford Chronicle as saying, “Anatole France’s quote “Until one has loved an animal, a part of one’s soul remains unawakened.” says it best.”

While you would HOPE that this would go without saying, they ask that owners keep cats and birds in carriers and cages and keep dogs on leashes.  This seems like good advice in terms of avoiding an “Evan Almighty” scenario.