EAST TAWAS – Animal lovers gathered at Christ Episcopal Church in East Tawas on Saturday, Oct. 4, to have their beloved pets blessed.

The church has been hosting the blessing ceremony since 2023 and has blessed an array of different pets, including horses.

The ceremony is held annually in commemoration of Saint Francis of Assisi, a Catholic figure who traditionally represents animals and the environment.

Every year, the church has been holding the ceremony on the first Saturday of October, and Reverend Bill McClure expressed his delight that this year’s occasion happened to fall on the exact day of the Feast of St. Francis.

Donning a white robe and a colorful striped stole, Rev. McClure first led the group in a series of prayers, where they expressed their joy and gratitude for their r

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