Pets welcome at annual Blessing of the Pets

St. Sylvester Catholic Church will hold its annual Blessing of the Animals event on Oct. 8 at 10 a.m.

The event will honor the feast day of St. Francis of Assisi, who is known as the patron saint of animals and the environment. All are welcome to bring their pets (leashed or caged, please) to St. Sylvester Catholic Church, 6464 Gulf Breeze Parkway.

"We hope to expect a lot of people this year, for our number is increasing each year," said Holly Hoskamer who organized this year's blessing. "Many churches across the country have festivals. I would like our community to know that all are welcome to attend with their pets, so come out and meet some of the great people of our parish."

For more information, please call St. Sylvester at 939-3020.