Celebrate the bond between humans and animals at Missa Gaia, the Feast of St. Francis with the Blessing of the Animals, in Bellevue! Saint Margaret's Episcopal Church is hosting this unique all-ages service on Sunday, October 6 at 10 am. Everyone can bring pets for a blessing.
All are welcome at this magical event! We will celebrate the Feast of St. Francis featuring the music of Missa Gaia: Earth Mass, featuring Afro-Cuban percussion, jazz harmonies, and a great fusion of gospel and traditional Episcopal music.
Saint Margaret's Episcopal Church in Factoria welcomes domesticated animals to receive a blessing at this service. Please use appropriate harnesses/leashes (and ensure your pets are doing OK and are kept under control). No snakes or spiders, please!
You don't need to be a churchgoer to attend or participate. All are welcome. You can follow along with a printed guide, and the minister will also share instructions. This is a lovely way to acknowledge the important role animals play in human lives. Kids love the music and the excitement of having pets present.
The informal service typically includes prayers for animals and nature, readings from scripture related to animal care, music celebrating nature and animals, a short sermon or talk about stewardship of creation, and the blessing itself, where clergy members individually bless each animal.
Many Episcopal churches hold this service around the Feast Day of St. Francis of Assisi.
About Missa Gaia
- "Missa Gaia" translates to "Earth Mass" in Latin.
- It was composed by Paul Winter in 1981 as a musical work celebrating the environment and all living creatures.
- The concept of blessing animals has roots in the tradition of St. Francis of Assisi, the patron saint of animals and the environment.
