Pets also had their special Sunday.
At Sacred Hearts Church in Valparaíso, as at others around the world, dozens of families arrived with their dogs on leashes to receive the traditional blessing. Some were carried in their owners’ arms, others walked with their tails held high among the faithful, and there were even some who weren’t expecting a blessing but received one anyway, as a priest approached each one.
It all took place as part of the commemoration of Saint Francis of Assisi, the patron saint of animals and ecology.
The church explained that the purpose was to “give thanks for the gift of their presence in our lives and ask for a special blessing for them”. For those who grew up with a dog at the foot of the bed, those words need no explanation.
The tradition goes back a long way, which is why it was also held in other countries. In the 13th century, Saint Francis called animals “lesser brothers” and even preached to them. And at the end of the gathering, the community shared a phrase that sums up the spirit of the occasion: “Saint Francis of Assisi, teach us to recognize and care for the beauty of all creation”.