pet blessings at valley locations

The traditional blessing of animals celebrates the life of St. Francis of Assisi, whose Feast Day is Sunday. St. Francis is known for his love of all creatures. Blessings of pets and other animals are planned at Valley churches and other sites.

Animal Welfare League Shelter, 812 Youngstown-Kingsville Road, SE, Vienna: Blessing of the animals at 1 p.m. Sunday by Deacon Bob Mintus.

Holy Apostles Parish at Sts. Peter and Paul Church, 421 Covington St., Youngstown: A pet blessing will be conducted at 10 a.m. today.

Howland Community Church, 198 Niles-Cortland Road, Howland: Blessing of animals at 4 p.m. Sunday in the pavilion or in North Hall, in case of rain. Participant may bring pets or stuffed animals.

Jerusalem Lutheran Church, 415 S. Main St., Columbiana: Blessing at 8:15 and 10:30 a.m. services Oct 25.

Our Lady of the Lakes Parish at St. Catherine Catholic Church, 1254 Grandview Road, Lake Milton: Pet blessing at 11 a.m. today in the pavilion during a simple ceremony with songs. There will be keepsakes for pets.

St. Columba Cathedral, 159 W. Rayen Ave., Youngstown: Blessing of pets will be at 12:30 p.m. Oct. 11 on the front steps of the cathedral by the bell tower.

Saint Francis Pet Care, a pet blessing will be among activities at its annual pet masquerade ball planned from 2 to 5 p.m. Oct. 24 at Tod Park, Park Avenue, Girard. Visit www.SaintFrancisPetCare.org or call 330-272-7435.

St. John’s Episcopal Church, 302 Wick Ave., Youngstown: Blessing outdoors at 2 p.m. Sunday.

St. Jude Church, 180 Seventh St., Columbiana: Pet blessing at 1:30 p.m. Sunday on church grounds. Pets will receive a blessing and a medal. There will be two gift baskets and other giveaways.

St. Patrick, 357 N. Main St., Hubbard: Blessing of animals will take place at 2 p.m. Sunday under the portico of the church.

St. Patrick Church, 1420 Oak Hill Ave., Youngstown: Pet blessing is scheduled at 10 a.m. today.

Western Reserve United Methodist Church, 4580 Canfield Road (Route 62), Canfield: Blessing of the animals will take place at 3 p.m. Oct. 11 at Woodland Haven, the outdoor chapel. A free-will offering will be taken to benefit Angels for Animals. For information, call the church at 330-792-5805.