Parishioners gathered Sunday at St. Helena’s Church to celebrate the Feast Of St. Francis and carry out the tradition of the blessing of the animals. 

The blessing of the animals is a tradition that's been around since the 12th century as St. Francis was a great lover of creation who befriended and preached to birds, wolves, and other animals.

Father David Powers says St. Helena's parish has been carrying out the tradition of the blessing of the animals since the church opened in 1940.

“Think about your relationship with your pet. For so many of you, your pet is a beloved member of your family, so isn't it appropriate to have the blessing of the animal?" said Father Powers.