Deacon Noel “Bud” Bryant blessed the animals at St. Joseph Catholic Church and traveled to Pine Bluff Animal Control to bless animals and staff on Oct. 4 during the Blessing of the Animals.
The effort was in honor of St. Francis of Assisi, the patron saint of animals. Catholic Daughters provided treats for animals and people at both events.
St. Francis holy cards and medals were available for those who attended. Owners won prizes of a St. Francis statue, a St. Francis wall plaque and a St. Francis book. A dog treat bowl and a treat bowl for owners were also given away, according to a news release.
A wall plaque of St. Francis was presented to Marcus Graydon, director of animal control. This was the fourth year Bryant and Catholic Daughters have honored St. Francis at the animal shelter.
During October, parishioners at St. Joseph will collect items for the animal shelter.
