St. Matthew’s Episcopal Church and Grace Episcopal Church to Host Annual Blessing of the Animals

Religion and Spirituality

October 2, 2025

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

September 22, 2025

Grace Episcopal Church and St. Matthew’s Episcopal Church to Host Annual Blessing of the Animals

MANSFIELD, OH — Grace Episcopal Church and Pantry, 41 Bowman Street, Mansfield and St. Matthew’s Episcopal Church, 1515 Mifflin Avenue, Ashland invite the community to their annual Blessing of the Animals in honor of the Feast of St. Francis of Assisi. The special services, which celebrate the bond between humans and their animal companions, will take place on Sunday, October 5, 2025.

The Rev. Christopher D. Hofer, Priest-in-Charge for both parishes, shared his enthusiasm for the event. “St. Francis is a beloved saint known for his deep reverence for all of God's creation. This is a wonderful opportunity to honor our furry, fuzzy, and scaly family members and give thanks for the joy they bring to our lives.”

Pet owners are encouraged to bring their pets, a favorite stuffed animal, or even a photograph of a beloved pet to receive a blessing. The services are open to all creatures, from dogs and cats to birds, hamsters, and reptiles.

The blessings will take place during the following worship services:

· Grace Episcopal Church, Mansfield: 8:00 a.m. & 10:15 a.m.

· St. Matthew’s Episcopal Church, Ashland: 12:30 p.m.

All pets must be safely contained in a cage or on a leash, as they will join their owners in the pews for the service.

The event is free and open to the public. All are welcome to attend and celebrate God's creatures, great and small.

About Grace Episcopal Church and St. Matthew’s Episcopal Church Grace Episcopal Church and Pantry in Mansfield and St. Matthew’s Episcopal Church in Ashland are welcoming faith communities committed to serving God and their neighbors. Both churches are part of the Episcopal Diocese of Ohio and members of the Episcopal Shared Ministry of Ashland and Richland Counties.

Contact: The Rev. Christopher D. Hofer, Priest-in-Charge

St. Matthew’s Episcopal Church, Ashland

Grace Episcopal Church, Mansfield

419.524.2661

fatherhofer@gmail.com

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