Blessing of the Animals

October 5, 2025
1:00pm
Sunset View Creamery
4970 County Road 14
Odessa

Calling all pet owners! On Sunday, October 5th at 1:00 PM, St. John’s Episcopal Church will hold its annual Blessing of the Animals at Sunset View Creamery, 4970 County Road 14, Odessa, NY. The celebration draws people of diverse faiths and backgrounds and is an opportunity to find joy and honor our faithful furry companions. All animals, photographs of pets that do not travel, as well as children’s stuffed animals are welcome. Each animal will receive a special blessing. Pets must be on leash or in appropriate carriers.

The Blessing of Animals is held in honor of St. Francis, who lived in Italy from 1181 to 1226 and is revered for his love of nature. Born into wealth and privilege, he preferred a life of poverty and simplicity. He founded the Franciscan religious order embracing the same values. Canonized as a saint in 1228, St. Francis is honored across Christian denominations and beyond.

St. John’s Episcopal is dedicated to learning from our history in order to be a more faithful, inclusive, and loving community, nourished and sustained by scripture, sacraments, music, fellowship, and outreach beyond their walls.

If you would like more information or an interview, contact: Jess Hoffman sunsetviewcreamery.com +607-594-2095, Father David Hanselman, dhanselm@gmail.com 607-761-4601 or Drew Guild themarketingguild65@gmail.com  at 607-731-8645.Â