STA News

The Blessing of the Animals

The melodic sounds of the Madrigal Singers, a violin solo, and prayer offerings at the Close amphitheater were pierced by the occasional bark from the congregation. Students, families, dozens of dogs, and many other furry and scaly friends were in attendance this Wednesday for the Blessing of the Animals.

The Blessing of the Animals, a celebration of Saint Francis of Assisi, dedicates time and gratitude to the role that all of God's creation plays in our lives, especially the special bond between us and our pets. During both the Lower and Upper School services, students offered their talents in the form of song and violin, and prayers of thanks and well-being for their animal friends in attendance. The Reverends Hundley, Hollerith, and Chadwick led the ceremonies, accompanied by members of the Vestry and a selection of student readers.

C Formers offered prayers “written by” dogs, spiders, owls, and other creatures before faculty, staff, and parents brought their pets forward to receive a personal blessing, a splash of holy water, and a well-deserved treat. Pets in attendance this year ranged from fish, snakes, bunnies, and cats to every shape and size of dog you could imagine. As always, the day left all two, four, and no-legged attendees feeling blessed and pawsitive.

See photos from the event here.

Watch the video here.

Blessing of the Animals 2024
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Located in Washington D.C., St. Albans School is a private, all boys day and boarding school. For more than a century, St. Albans has offered a distinctive educational experience for young men in grades 4 through 12. While our students reach exceptional academic goals and exhibit first-rate athletic and artistic achievements, as an Episcopal school we place equal emphasis upon moral and spiritual education.