The Blessing of the Animals is a ceremony held annually, celebrating the Feast of St. Francis of Assisi (c.1181-1226) on and around October 4th. As the patron saint of animals and the environment, the tradition of the blessing is inspired by St. Francis’s deep love for all creatures and reflects his belief in the harmony of all living beings, their connection to the divine, and gives thanks for the beauty of the animal kingdom.
On October 7th, a Blessing of the Animals ceremony was held at The ARK at JFK for the animals who arrived at JFK with ‘their humans’.
Elizabeth Schuette, President and CEO, ARK Import Export Center, began the ceremony with a warm welcome to all in attendance and the animals who arrived at JFK with their pet parents, several of whom are staff at The ARK. Schuette spoke of the important place that animals hold in our hearts and about the compassionate pre- and post-travel animal care that the ARK provides to all pets, horses, birds, and non-domesticated animals along their journey into and out of JFK Airport on a daily and year-round basis. “We want to honor our employees and all the passengers and workers who support animals at the airport by blessing them and blessing the animals,” said Schuette.
Following Elizabeth Schuette’s introduction at this special tribute, Reverand Romeo Dabee, JFK Airport Community Minister, led a poignant ceremony, blessing the animals and their caregivers with a warm and heartfelt prayer.
Reflecting upon the legacy of St. Francis, Rev. Dabee said, “St. Francis loved animals and certainly took care of them, but it’s also a good reminder for us that if we can care for animals, we can care for each other. And I think that’s what translates today. That’s why we remember the blessing of the animals, and the blessing of those who are their companions and ourselves.”
