I recently had a conversation with a parishioner who had to put his pet dog to sleep. This is a very difficult thing to do. Just as we grieve for our loved ones who have passed away, we can grieve for our beloved pets as well when they are gone.
On a personal note, we have always had dogs growing up in our house. We had a Rhodesian Ridgeback, Tara, a Lakeland Terrier, Cassidy, a miniature Schnauzer, Sadie, and now my mother has a Havaneese Poodle mix, Simi, who is five months old. Pets can be such a blessing in our lives, they are a sign of God’s goodness and love, and can give a lot of joy, love, comfort, and fun into our lives. Pets can be great companions for us.
Every year in October the Church celebrates the Feast of St. Francis, a saint known for his love for animals. We also, at this time, at St. Mary, annually celebrate the blessing of pets. Last year we had a large turn out, blessing dogs, cats, and other animals during this lively prayer and blessing.
On a separate note, this Monday, May 30th, is Memorial Day. On this day we remember and honor those who have died in military service. We thank these individuals and all who serve our country in the Armed Forces for protecting our freedom and quality of life in the United States.
On Memorial Day, St. Mary Church will celebrate an outdoor Mass at our cemetery at 9:30am. We invite all to come. Hope to see you there.
God bless,
Fr. Ryan