Paws, prayers, and plenty of wagging tails will fill the courtyard at Father Joe’s Villages on Wednesday, Oct. 1. The nonprofit is hosting a single “Blessing of the Animals” event at 10:30 a.m., just before Mass at the Joan Kroc Center at 1501 Imperial Ave., where Deacon Jim Vargas will offer blessings to the pets of people experiencing homelessness.

For folks who have lost so much, a pet can mean everything — a source of comfort, protection, and unconditional love. Father Joe’s Villages understands that bond, which is why, since 2020, all of its shelters have welcomed pets, service animals, and emotional support animals. No one should have to choose between a safe place to stay and the animal who feels like family.

Both residents and community members are welcome to bring their four-leg

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