The Blessing of the Animals service, one of the most beloved events of the year, returns to Washington National Cathedral on Sunday, October 6.

The joyful gathering outside at the Cathedral’s west front honors the feast day of Saint Francis of Assisi (c. 1180–1226), patron saint of animals and the environment. 

Pets of all kinds, along with their caretakers, are invited to receive a special blessing at the Cathedral’s west front at 2:00 PM ET.

We’re also thrilled to partner with City Dogs and City Kitties Rescue (CDCK) this year, a nonprofit dedicated to rescuing animals from overcrowded and under-resourced shelters. Representatives from CDCK will be on-site to share more about their important work.

Who: Washington National Cathedral invites all animal lovers and their pets to participate, with special participation from City Dogs and City Kitties Rescue (CDCK).
What: The annual Blessing of the Animals service, celebrating the feast day of Saint Francis of Assisi, the patron saint of animals and the environment.
Where: Washington National Cathedral, west front courtyard.
When: Sunday, October 6, 2024, at 2:00 PM ET.

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CONTACT:
Christine Lamitina, West End Strategy Team, [email protected], 414-514-8009

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About Washington National Cathedral
Grounded in the reconciling love of Jesus Christ, Washington National Cathedral is a house of prayer for all people, conceived by our founders to serve as a great church for national purposes.