Family resources for Sunday September 30, Blessing of the Animals

Story: Brother sun, sister moon: the life and stories of St. Francis

Background info: Blessing of the Animals is celebrated in many UU congregations on the Sunday closest to October 4. In the Roman Catholic tradition, October 4 is the Feast of St. Francis of Assisi. St. Francis (1182-1226) was a monk who founded the contemporary order of Franciscans. He was known for his vow of poverty and his special connection to animals, among many other things. Many Unitarian Universalists have picked up on the Catholic tradition of blessing animals, particularly pets, on this day. This relates to us as UUs because of our shared belief that we are deeply connected to all living things (principle 7).

The details about Sunday morning:

Babies – 4 year olds

  • chalice lighting and joys & concerns
  • play inside in our very popular wooden kitchen.
  • play outside.

Kindergarten- grade 3

  • chalice lighting and joys & concerns

Grade 4 – Grade 8

  • chalice lighting and joys & concerns
  • story: Saint Francis
  • write an animal blessing and copy for everyone to take home

 

What you can do this week at home:

If you are unable to join us, feel free to use these links and resources to create a faith formation opportunity in your own home this week.

  • Go on a hike on our very own mountains named after St. Francis himself! Remember to take your pet for extra blessings.

 

I hope to see your family on Sunday!  Let me know if I can be supportive to you in any other way!  I am here for you.

 

All my best with blessings,

Amy

re@beaconuu.com