Stritch to Hold 10th Annual Blessing of the Animals

In celebration of the Feast of St. Francis, will hold its 10th annual Blessing of the Animals in Heritage Park, on the east side of campus, at 1 p.m. on Oct. 2.

This festive event is free and open to the public. Companion animals of all shapes and sizes are welcome. Dogs must be leashed and cats and any other small animals should be brought in a cage or pet carrier.

Father Jim Gannon, Stritch’s campus priest, will officiate. Father Jim is a member of the Order of Friars Minor, which St. Francis founded in 1209. Known as the patron saint of animals, Francis championed respect for all of creation. That value is one of several that are integral to Stritch, which is sponsored by the Sisters of St. Francis of Assisi.

Ample free parking is available in lots 3 and 7. You can find a map of the campus and the location of Heritage Park here.