Father Kien Kieu gently sprinkles holy water on the animals at Sacred Heart’s Blessing of the Animals ceremony Saturday, Oct. 4. Anza Valley Outlook/Courtesy photo
Father Kien Kieu of the Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Anza prayed over area pets as part of their annual Blessing of the Animals event Saturday, Oct. 4. Many of the Valley’s finest animals took part in the special ceremony meant just for them.Father Kieu blessed dogs and puppies, a lamb, rabbits and even the photo of a cherished lizard that was unable to attend in person. All creatures were perfectly behaved for their dedication as their owners beamed with pride.Catholic tradition offers the Blessing of the Animals in remembrance of Saint Francis of Assisi's love for all God's creatures. Francis wrote the Canticle of the Creatures, honoring all the Lord's living things: “All praise to you, Oh Lord, for all these brother and sister creatures.”[gallery td_select_gallery_s
