Old North Church, with attendance from RUFF North End dog group, hosted their annual Blessing of the Animals on Sunday afternoon in honor of St. Francis Day.
Dozens of pets, accompanied by their humans, congregated on the Prado to receive individual blessings from Rev. Ellie Terry and Rev. Stephen Ayres of Old North Church. A prayer was held for those with deceased pets and scriptures were read to commemorate St. Francis of Assisi, the patron saint of animals.
Fall having finally fell in Boston, the weather was pleasant as the furry North End residents received their blessings for continuing health and happiness. Those who attended without their pets were encouraged to receive blessings for their loved ones back home.