On October 4, the Upper Mount Gravatt Wishart Parish welcomed parishioners and their pets for the annual Pet Blessing Liturgy. The event coincided with the Feast of St Francis of Assisi, the patron saint of animals, and provided an opportunity for families to celebrate their pets and the joy they bring to daily life.
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The Pet Blessing Liturgy is an established tradition at the parish. Fr Francis Fernandes led the ceremony, which took place in the parish community centre. Attendees brought a variety of pets, including dogs, cats, birds, and rabbits, each receiving a blessing. The service included prayers and rituals recognising the bond between humans and animals.
St Francis of Assisi inspired the focus of the liturgy. Known for his respect and care for all living creatures, he viewed animals as part of God’s creation. The parish’s event reflected this philosophy, providing a space for parishioners to gather with their pets in a shared celebration.
The ceremony marked the conclusion of the parish’s participation in the Season of Creation, a time dedicated to appreciating the natural world and all living beings. For many attendees, the blessing was a meaningful occasion to pause and acknowledge the companionship of their pets. Families shared the experience together, bringing children and adults alike to witness and participate in the liturgy.
The gathering fostered a sense of community, as people from Upper Mount Gravatt and surrounding suburbs came together to celebrate the animals that enrich their lives. By offering blessings for pets, the parish continues to honour the tradition of St Francis and provide opportunities for parishioners to connect through shared values and faith.
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The annual Pet Blessing Liturgy has become a valued event in the parish calendar, highlighting the bonds between humans and animals and the place of pets in everyday life. The parish encourages those interested to visit their website or social media pages for information about upcoming liturgies and community activities.
Published 20-October-2025
