St. Francis is still at work

It seems that St. Francis is still quite busy with his ecumenical outreach. Two thirds of the protestant churches in our area had a blessing of the animals in celebration of St. Francis' feast day. Lutherans, Methodists, Anglicans/Episcopalians: all feel a kinship with the gentle saint who once discussed the Faith with a Muslim Sultan with such glowing charity it is said the Sultan converted to Christianity on his deathbed. You can read a little more about it here St. Francis of Assisi: Converter of Muslims
Not being able to transport all the chickens, dogs, cats and goats for blessing, we procured our own holy water and celebrated the blessing ourselves.

May all enjoy the loving companionship of family and animals, giving thanks to God for His bounty. Below are some animal pictures that remind me of Bible verses.

Psalm 61: 4, 5  ...for you are my refuge, a tower of strength against the foe. Let me dwell in your tent forever, take refuge in the shelter of your wings.

1 Peter 3: 8, 9  Finally, all of you, be of one mind, sympathetic, loving toward one another, compassionate, humble. Do not return evil for evil, or insult for insult; but, on the contrary, a blessing, because to this you were called, that you might inherit a blessing.