‘Blessing of the Animals’

Annual event celebrates feast day of St. Francis of Assisi

VALLEY FORGE >> The Washington Memorial Chapel in Valley Forge National Historical Park held its annual “Blessing Of The Animals” on Sunday, Oct. 9, on the Chapel grounds, as part of the Feast of St. Francis of Assisi celebration.

St. Francis, who is the patron saint of animals and nature, is commemorated each year for his love of all of God’s creation.

Open to animal lovers and their pets (large and small), this “purr-fectly” popular event featured a special blessing by Washington Memorial Chapel Rector, Father Tommy Thompson, as well as several VIP guest appearances, booths, and tables to disseminate information for owners and their pets. For those who have lost a pet, Father Thompson also blessed ashes, photographs and other mementos.

Organizations and guests with tables at the event included Elmwood Park Zoo, Michele Gargiulo, sommelier and author of Pairing Paws: Dog Breeds and Their Spirit Wines, The Valley Forge Park Alliance, who is a partner in the event, The Washington Memorial Heritage, Piggyback Treats, Main Line Animal Rescue and many more.

Live ukulele music was also performed throughout the event by acclaimed Upper Merion singersongwriter Lisa Lerman. Her hit song “Another Circle

Around the Sun” was featured in October 2020 as part of WHYY’s House Concert Series and she performs at public events, private parties, and it is of particular joy when she performs for residents of Assisted Living and memory care facilities.

“’The Blessing of the Animals’ celebration at Washington Memorial Chapel has become a beloved tradition in our community,” said Pat Nogar, Rector’s Warden at the Chapel. “We look forward to welcoming pet parents and their beloved animals to share in a day of fellowship and celebration of all that is good in our world.”

PHOTO COURTESY OF AMY M. SCHWAB PHOTOGRAPHY Washington Memorial Chapel Rector Father Tommy Thompson shakes “hands” with a therapy dog before the blessing.

PHOTO COURTESY OF AMY M. SCHWAB PHOTOGRAPHY Washington Memorial Chapel priests bless one of the dogs.

PHOTO COURTESY OF AMY M. SCHWAB PHOTOGRAPHY Washington Memorial Chapel Rector Father Tommy Thompson blesses a horse.

PHOTO COURTESY OF AMY M. SCHWAB PHOTOGRAPHY Singer-songwriter Lisa Lerman performed during the event.