Photo courtesy of Justin Rudd.
Justin Rudd and his nonprofit Community Action Team invite the animals of Long Beach to get blessed on Sunday in the world’s largest interfaith animal blessing.
The event is not just for cats and dogs, either. Over the years, the Interfaith Blessing of the Animals has also featured animals like horses, exotic birds, pigs, turtles, fish and other animals. The event, held in celebration of St. Francis Day, is free and open to the public.
Animals will first strut their stuff on a red carpet at about 5:30PM before making their way to clergymen of various faiths.
“After brief words from each of the faith leaders, the menagerie of participants will have the opportunity to line up single-file to be blessed by the faith leaders who will be dressed in traditional garb,” Rudd said on his website. “Olive branches and holy water will be available. Those with pets can choose to get “blessed” by one or all of the clergy”
There will also be a moment of blessing, silence and a vigil at the beginning of the service for animals who are subjected to sport dog fighting and other inhumane, unethical treatment. Participants can also bring collars, photos and/or ashes of deceased pets to get blessed. Collars and photos of sick or immobile pets will also be welcomed.
The 13th Annual Interfaith Blessing of the Animals will take place on the concrete boat launch ramp at 1 Granada Avenue in Belmont Shore next to Rosie’s Dog Beach, beginning at 5:30PM. Parking is available for free in the non-metered spaces. For more information, click here.