Sunday, October 4 marks the culmination of the Season of Creation when St. Mary’s will commemorate the Feast of St. Francis, the namesake of our city and the patron saint of animals and the environment. Both humans and their pets, pet photos, or stuffed animals are welcome at the 9:00 a.m. and 11:00 a.m. as we offer gratitude for their companionship and bestow a special individual blessing on each pet, photo or stuffed animal. The 8:00 a.m. service will remain animal-free for those with allergies or who would rather give thanks for the creatures of the earth while those creatures dwell elsewhere in God’s vast creation.