Blessing of the Animals - Saint James Episcopal Church, Charleston, SC

priest blessing a dog at Blessing of the Animals, Saint James Episcopal Church, Charleston, SC

Saint James Episcopal Church is hosting our 2nd Annual Blessing of the Animals, where all creatures, great and small, are welcome. This special event honors the spirit of St. Francis, Patron Saint of Animals, and celebrates the joy our pets bring to our lives. They'll receive a special blessing for good health and safety.

Blessing of The Animals Details

  • Date: Sunday, October 6

  • Time (Blessing): 12pm - Blessing of the Animals at Ellis Creek Outdoor Chapel (behind the Saint James Center)

  • Time (Lunch): 12:30pm - Lunch on the St. James Center patio (behind the Saint James Center)

  • Address: 1872 Camp Rd, James Island, SC 29412

What to Expect Blessing of the Animals

man and three kids at an outside church event standing by the creek - Blessing of the Animals, Saint James Episcopal Church, Charleston, SC
  • A short, pet-friendly service led by Father Taylor

  • Individual blessings for each animal

  • Prayer of Saint Francis

  • A community lunch with hot dogs and hamburgers (bring a side to share!). Please sign up to bring something if you can. Here's a link to sign up to bring food if you’re able and to help with setup and/or clean up. Thank you!

All Are Welcome

3 women and a man sitting on a bench at a church event

Whether you're a regular parishioner or just love animals, everyone's invited to this special event. It's a perfect opportunity to experience the fellowship of Saint James Episcopal Church!

How You Can Help Make the Pet Blessing a Success

  • We're looking for volunteers to help with setup and cleanup. It's a great way to get involved and meet new people (and pets!). Here’s a link to sign up to help!

  • If it's inconvenient to go home after the service and return, please feel free to bring your pet to the church service.

What to Bring to the Animal Blessing

  • Your pet (leashed or in a carrier)

  • A side dish or dessert to share (if you can)

  • A chair or blanket for seating

  • Water and treats for your animal companion

  • Waste bags for easy cleanup

Celebrating All of God's Creatures

priest blessing a snake

Following in the footsteps of the patron saint of animals, we welcome all pets to receive a blessing. Last year we blessed a snake!

Join Us

 
cross outside at outdoor chapel at Saint James Episcopal Church, James Island, SC
 

Experience the joy, love, and occasional bark that makes this event so special. It's more than just a blessing - it's a celebration of the companionship our pets bring to our lives, inspired by St. Francis's love for all creatures.

Feel free to spread the word and bring a friend (human or pet)! Let's make this year's Blessing of the Animals the best yet. Join us at Saint James Episcopal Church for a day of faith, fun, and furry (or feathered, or scaly) friends!

Questions about our pet blessing event? Contact the church office. We can't wait to see you and your beloved pets!

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