Wagging tails fill Malate Church as priests bless pets for St. Francis feast
In Manila, the Malate Church held its first annual pet blessing on the feast day of St. Francis of Assisi, a patron saint of animals and ecology. Over 200 pets, mostly dogs but also cats and a snail, were blessed by priests in a line formation. The event was seen as a way to express gratitude for the unconditional love and companionship pets provide while honoring St. Francis' teachings. The church also offered free pet vaccinations in the parking lot.
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