City of Holbrook1

Our Lady of Guadalupe Roman Catholic Church in Holbrook is planning a Blessing of Animals to honor Saint Francis of Assisi. There is no charge for this event, and it is open to all. The blessing will begin promptly at 12 noon on Saturday, Oct. 5, in front of the church, located at 225 E. Arizona St. All well-behaved animals must be on a leash or otherwise contained. Pet parents are asked to be prepared to pick-up after their animals.

Saint Francis was born in the 12th century to a wealthy family in Italy, but he rejected his family’s wealth to live as Jesus had lived. He gave away all his possessions and begged for whatever he needed. He understood that all of creation is united to God the Creator. This led to his love for the poor, sick including lepers and nature including animals. He has been named the patron saint of ecology. Oct. 4, is Saint Francis’s Feast Day. For additional information or questions, call the parish office at 928-524-3261.