The Story of St. Francis, Patron Saint of Animals

Poorly dressed in rough, brown cloth, a little thin man felt compassion for the smallest of God's creatures. St. Francis of Assisi chose to live in poverty while rejoicing in the world's natural beauty, teaching that all should be generous to animals and birds.

Throughout his travels, St. Francis spoke of God's great love and care for his companion animals. During a long winter travel he brought honey to the bees and exchanged his cloak with a butcher in return for two lambs to save them from slaughter. He urged people to throw out grain for the birds and was seen throwing freshly caught fish back into the water. He was loved and followed by many pet animals; lambs, rabbits, and pheasants among them.

Today we celebrate the "Feast of St. Francis" on October 4th. Every fall, over 1000 pets are blessed at the Feast of St. Francis at New York's Cathedral of St. John the Divine.

Prayer for your pet:

"Good St. Francis, you loved all of God's creatures. To you they were your brothers and sisters. Help us follow your example of treating every living thing with love and kindness. St. Francis, patron saint of animals, watch over my pet and keep my companion safe."