Loading...About a dozen dogs of all shapes and sizes, with their owners and friends, took part in the annual Blessing of the Animals at Episcopal Church of the Ascension Sunday afternoon.
The event, observed in numerous congregations in our diocese, marks St. Francis's Day in memory of Francis of Assisi, an Italian preacher and friar of the 12th century, who gave up family wealth to care for the poor. Francis was also known for his affection for animals.
Ascension members gathered with their pets for the brief service alongside the small brick church with the red doors at 211 N. Third St. in Bardstown. The Rev. Karl Lusk led the group in reciting "All Things Bright and Beautiful" and other prayers calling for kindness and protection of animals and those who care for them. He blessed each animal, gently placing his hand on the pet's head, praying that the animal and its human "enjoy life together and find joy with the God who created you."
About the Photo: The Rev. Karl Lusk blesses Lily, Jim and Evelyn Silliman's dog, during Blessing of the Animals services Sunday at Episcopal Church of the Ascension in Bardstown. 'We hope the blessing took - maybe she’ll calm down a bit, but she’s only just turned 1 year old and still has much of the puppy spirit in her," Evelyn Silliman said. The Sillimans are faculty members at St. Catharine's College.  
