Religion Notes: Orthodox parish hosts second annual ‘Blessing of the Animals’
By Jeff Brumley
26/11/2011
St. John the Divine Greek Orthodox Church will host its second annual “Blessing of the Animals” from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 3, at Metropolitan Park in downtown Jacksonville.
The Rev. Nicholas Louh said the event is being held to fulfill a spiritual responsibility to care for creation.
“Our spirituality compels us to express gratitude for the love and blessings our pets give us,” Louh said in a release on the parish website. “What better way to show our feelings for these faithful members of our families than to ask God’s blessing for them in return?”
In addition to animal blessing rites, the event includes free pictures with Santa, a butterfly tent and performances by the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office K-9 unit and the Patriot Dogs. Greyhound and collie rescue groups also will be on hand, as will dog groomers to give free nail clippings.
Games, face painting and other treats will be available for children. Greek food and other food vendors will also be available.
Admittance is free and open to the public.
Call (904) 396-5383 or visit StJohntheDivineJax.org for more information.
