Pet blessings at Mahoning Valley churches

The traditional blessing of animals celebrates the life of St. Francis of Assisi, whose Feast Day is Thursday. St. Francis is known for his love of all creatures. Pets should be leashed or in pet carriers.

Blessed Sacrament Church, 3020 Reeves Road NE, Warren: Blessing of animals will be at 10:30 a.m. next Saturday at the outdoor gathering space.

Christ Episcopal Church, 2627 Atlantic St., Warren: A free pet celebration for parish and community is planned from 2 to 5:30 p.m. Sunday. The Rev. Jeff Baker will bless animals at 5 p.m. In case of rain, it will be in the parish hall. Activities will include pony rides, a petting zoo and pet market. Contests for the pet who looks most like its owner, the best dressed pet, the pet who performs the best trick, and the most unusual pet will be at 3:30 p.m. A pet health and wellness discussion by Dr. Rufus Sparks of Town & Country Veterinary Hospital will be at 4:15 p.m. Agility/obedience demonstrations, pet photos and snacks will be available. For information, call 330-372-4998.

Christ the Good Shepherd Parish: Blessing will be at 6 p.m. Thursday at St. John the Baptist Church, 159 Reed Ave., Campbell. Refreshments for humans and pets will follow.

Holy Family Church, 2729 Center Road, Poland: Blessing will be at 2:30 p.m. Sunday in the parking lot.

Immaculate Heart of Mary Church, 4490 Norquest Blvd., Austintown: Blessing will be at 10 a.m. next Saturday on the lawn in front of the rectory by the statue of St. Francis by Deacon Nicholas Moliterno.

Jersusalem Lutheran Church, 415 S. Main St., Columbiana: Animal-friendly services are planned at 8:30 and 10:45 a.m. Oct. 7. Representatives of Safe at Last and Humane Society of Columbiana County will attend the later service.

St. Christine Church, 1325 S. Schenley Ave., Youngstown: Blessing will be at 1 p.m. Oct. 7 on the lawn in front of the rectory.

St. John’s Episcopal Church, 323 Wick Ave., Youngstown: Blessing of the animals and choral evensong is set at 4 p.m. Oct. 7. Participants may bring pets and stuffed animals. Refreshments will be served for humans and animal companions.

St. Jude Church, 180 Seventh St., Columbiana: Blessing of pets is scheduled for 5:15 p.m. Thursday in the parking lot.

St. Patrick Church, 1420 Oak Hill Ave., Youngstown: Pet blessing will be at 6:30 p.m. Thursday in the sunflower garden area on Cleveland Street.

St. Patrick Church, 374 N. Main St., Hubbard: A blessing of animals will be at 6 p.m. Thursday on the portico of the church. All are welcome.