By Antonina Zielinska
Big K9 unit dogs, little dogs in pink tutus, cats in baskets and pets of all kinds depicted on physical photos and digital screens received a special blessing from the Downtown Brooklyn Franciscan community.
Father Brian Jordan, S.F.C., led the blessing of the animals Oct. 7 in front of St. Francis College at the conclusion of the college’s special Year of Mercy St. Francis and St. Clare Week.
He told those gathered that mercy must be extended to all of God’s creation and so he asked that all those present pray with him over the animals.
Brother Bill Boslet, OSF, who is a member of the board of St. Francis College, said the 800-year-old Franciscan tradition of blessing of the animals has always been important, but it is especially important in modern times.
“Hopefully this is an educational opportunity to think about taking care of others rather than self,” he said. “It’s particularly important in today’s world when we need to think about helping others and taking care of the planet.”
Father Jordan told those gathered that even though the blessing comes from ancient traditions the Franciscan brothers have now adopted it to the modern age by encouraging people to not only bring their pets for a physical blessing but also use technology to pray in a way that transcends into their homes. Therefore, he asked for anyone who has one to show a photo of their pet on their phones during the blessing.
Student Venesa Gomez, who came with her public health care class to the event, said she was moved by the ceremony. It brought back memories of her dog, who died a year ago. She said it reminded her of the special love a dogs can have for people. And although that brought sadness into her hear, she said the ceremony also made her feel joy.
She was happy to see the K9 units from the police department and the bomb squads receive special recognition during the blessing. With everything that has been happening relating to terrorism in the news, it’s important to remember all those who keep New Yorkers safe.
During the blessing ceremony Father Jordan told those present that there have been about 20 terrorists attacks prevented since Sept. 11, 2002 in New York City and a portion of them have been prevented thanks to the work of the city’s K9 units. He likened them to guardian angels who keep the city safe.
Maryanne Gentile, a parishioner of the neighboring Oratory of St. Boniface, said she is grateful to St. Francis College for organizing events that bring the community together.
She said she has been coming to the St. Francis College ceremony every year and has always brought her cat with her. She currently takes care of a white cat, Kennedy, who is deaf and was found abandoned in front of a high school. Kennedy is in his senior years now, so she says she tries to get him all the help he can get.
She sees the blessing as a way to help her cat and honor the saint she admires for his dedication to the care of all animals.
“I’m a big fan of St. Francis,” she said.