The public is invited to bring a pet, service animal, foster or any animal companion to Immanuel's outdoor chapel on October 3. All animals and their human companions will be individually prayed for following a brief opening service which will seek God’s blessings on the creatures of the world. 

The large lawn at the Bob Allen Memorial Chapel has ample room for social distancing and individuals should bring their own lawn chairs. Limited fixed seating in the chapel is also available. Each animal should be under leash control or in a carrier. For more details call 850.837.6324 or email Deacon Jon Bryan at jon.iacdestin@gmail.com.

Religious events to bless animals have a long tradition worldwide of being held in early October near the Feast of St. Francis of Assisi who is considered a patron of animals.

“This is our second year to host a Blessing of the Animals and it’s especially important in this time of isolation to celebrate and bless the animals who are such a vital source of comfort in our lives,” said Bryan. “The service will hopefully inspire a sense of fellowship with all living things, especially our brothers the animals because God gave the Earth to them as their home in common with us.”