The feast of St. Francis of Assisi that coincides with World Animal day, an international day of action for animal rights and welfare was observed on 4th October 2021. St. Francis of Assisi, the patron saint of animals and the environment is viewed as the original Earth Day advocate with the patron saint caring for the poor and sick, preaching sermons to animals and praising all creatures as brothers and sisters of God.

Rt. Revd. Dushantha Rodrigo, The Bishop of Colombo, Ven. Perry Brohier, Archdeacon of Colombo and Vicar of the Cathedral and Revd. Maxwell Doss were present at the steps of the Cathedral for pets to be brought in for a blessing between 5pm and 6pm. COVID 19 Health and Safety protocols were observed with the blessing based on a ‘’drive by’’ or ‘’walk through’’.

Sixteen dogs of different breeds and one rabbit were brought in most lovingly by their owners for a blessing. As we are all aware, the love we give to our pets, and receive from them, can draw us more deeply into the larger circle of life and to our common relationship to our Creator. Our pets also provide us with priceless therapy. The prayer of blessing that was said over each pet was as follows: “(name of pet), may you be blessed in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. May you and (name of the owner) enjoy life together and find joy with God who created you, Amen”