Washington Memorial Chapel To Host Its “Blessing Of The Animals"

Washington Memorial Chapel at Valley Forge National Historical Park has announced that it will, once again, hold its annual Blessing of the Animals on Sunday, October 6 at 2 PM on the Chapel grounds. This “purr-fectly” delightful event celebrates the Feast of St. Francis of Assisi, the patron saint of animals and nature, and is commemorated each year for his love of all of God’s creation.

The ceremony will start with opening remarks at 2 PM from Johanna Reck, Vestry Parish Life & Welcome Committee of WMC, Father Tim Steeves, Associate Rector of WMC, and feature special guest Molly Duffy, Executive Director of Valley Forge Park Alliance.

Father Steeves, will, then, bless each animal and present a commemorative certificate of blessing. Guests are invited to also bring photos of pets or cremains to be blessed. Hundreds of animals have been blessed in the past, including dogs, cats, horses, birds and lizards. A raffle and give-away for a $50 gift card to Pet Smart will also occur during the event.

The following organizations will attend the event and will disseminate information to guests:

• Elmwood Park Zoo – Elmwood Park Zoo is dedicated to providing the community with varied learning experiences that encourage people to play an active role in wildlife and environmental conservation activities. The zoo strives to empower its guests with the skills, knowledge and resources that may influence them to lead environmentally healthy lives. Elmwood Park Zoo currently maintains a collection of over 100 species that hail from all over the globe. Highlights of the collection include giraffes, zebras, bald and golden eagles, jaguars, and red pandas.

• Valley Forge Park Alliance – The Valley Park Alliance works tirelessly to facilitate programs for park funding, education, volunteer programs, and partnerships to preserve Valley Forge. They are committed to ensuring the park is a beautiful gathering place of inspiration, refuge, and commemoration for generations to come.

• Animal House Project – Animal House Project is a 501(c)3 charitable organization on a mission to keep companion pets at home and out of shelters. By providing donated pet food and pet care products to families in need.